Recent reports have identified a deadly strain of Avian Flu, known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), causing the deaths of ducks at Austin's prominent Arboretum Shopping Center. According to FOX 7 Austin, the deceased ducks were discovered near a pond situated at the intersection of North Capital of Texas Highway and Research Blvd.

The impact of HPAI has not been isolated, as evident in other Texas counties reporting bird flu cases including Wharton, Galveston, El Paso, Potter, and Harris counties. These cases signal a broader issue with the virus apparently circulating among wild birds. Particularly as they visit their winter habitats, Texas Parks and Wildlife have issued recommendations for residents to remove bird feeders and baths to decrease bird congregations, KVUE reports.

In an effort to contain the spread, precautions for game bird hunters have been advised. These include the proper disposal of carcasses, wearing gloves during processing, and avoiding consumption or processing of any sick bird. Hunters, found often in close contact with wildlife, are also urged to clean and disinfect tools between carcasses and cook meat thoroughly.

While the transmission risk to humans is considered low, individuals who have encountered HPAI-positive or suspect animals and exhibit signs of illness should contact healthcare providers immediately, as recommended by state officials. Dead or sick animals should not be handled by the public while pets, tempted by wild carcasses, might bring unnecessary risks into homes, according to FOX 7 Austin.

If there's contact with wild animals that seems to be unavoidable, the public is encouraged to take basic protective measures. To report any wild animal with signs consistent with HPAI, one should contact the local TPWD wildlife biologist, providing critical support in tracking and managing the current outbreak.