
A recent outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as Bird Flu, has resulted in the deaths of several ducks at the Arboretum Duck Pond in Austin, Texas. According to CBS Austin, tests have confirmed that two ducks submitted for testing were infected, and the disease has taken fewer than half a dozen birds according to initial reports. Wildlife Specialist Megan Hahn indicated that this is the first sign of avian flu for the year and a novel presence in the pond, a site frequented by local residents and wildlife enthusiasts.
The alert follows the first human fatality caused by Bird Flu in Louisiana, signaling a heightened concern for cross-species transmission. Hahn assuaged some fear, noting that while the flu isn't as contagious to humans as it is to birds, the risk of human sickness remains, hence the signage around the pond cautioning against contact with wild birds, CBS Austin reported. Austinite Eric Mort, expressed his dismay at the news, stating that he noticed fewer ducks around what was usually a bustling area.
Mitigation efforts are now in full force, with Texas Parks and Wildlife removing bird feeders and committing to more frequent cleaning of bird baths. In addition, the public is advised against feeding wild animals to help prevent them from gathering in close quarters, which could exacerbate the spread of the virus. This is due to the ease with which birds can transmit the disease through common behaviors such as sneezing, causing the transmission of germs to humans and other birds.
Separately, KHOU reports that HPAI has been circulating within the wild bird populations across the nation, resulting in an increase in Texas counties such as Wharton, Galveston, and Harris. As the virus easily transmits directly between animals, and indirectly through environmental contamination, wildlife rehabilitators are advised to exercise extreme caution and quarantine animals with clinical signs of HPAI. The public plays a role as well, being asked to refrain from unnecessary contact with wild birds and not handling sick or dead wildlife.
Hunters are also being advised to take precautionary measures such as wearing gloves when processing game birds, ensuring meat is cooked thoroughly, and properly disinfecting tools. Such measures are intended to minimize any risks associated with HPAI and safeguard both animal and human populations against further spread of the illness. While the risk to humans is considered low at this point, basic protective measures are still recommended for any unavoidable contact with wild animals, KHOU has detailed.