A recent uptick in avian influenza cases has been reported by Nevada's Department of Wildlife (NDOW), marking a concern for areas frequented by hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, according to 8NewsNow. The infection, found in ducks at Key Pittman Wildlife Management Area and Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge, was detected in 10 out of 70 ducks sampled, with seven confirmed as the highly pathogenic strain, which can be severe and sometimes fatal for birds, whereas so far, the risk to humans is considered low.
Hunters are gearing up for the season, which starts on Saturday, and NDOW's Wildlife Veterinarian Nate LaHue emphasizes safety measures to prevent the spread, "HPAI typically doesn’t have much of an impact on the overall population of waterfowl," noting the need to take precautions during the hunt, especially with human and pet interactions with the wildlife, this advice comes on the heels of the department's ongoing investigations, with further test results pending from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as detailed in a statement obtained by Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Hunters in Nevada are currently facing a situation where caution is the directive. With the appearance of avian influenza in the state, it was first noticed in July 2022. NDOW provides guidelines: wear gloves and eye protection, discard intestines soon after harvesting, avoid eating or drinking during processing, and cook all game to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Practices such as not handling or consuming visibly sick or dead waterfowl and keeping dogs from contact with diseased animals or raw meat are accentuated, all with an eye toward reducing potential transmissions.
While waterfowl hunting season is an anticipated event, NDOW is making efforts to ensure that the outdoor activities, including the “Ducks & Donuts” event scheduled for October 18 at Overton Wildlife Management Area, can go on safely; they've shared more details for these events on their Facebook page and remind enthusiasts that the presence of avian influenza will be a reality to contend with, Nate LaHue told 8NewsNow, "We expect avian influenza to potentially be wherever there are waterfowl," implying that the risk may not be isolated and could affect various areas frequented by migratory waterfowl.
