The presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has been confirmed in multiple locations across Texas, according to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories. Recent detections have been reported in Wharton, Galveston, and Harris counties.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department states that this highly contagious virus has been found in all states across the U.S. and can easily spread among both wild and domestic birds. The virus can be transmitted directly between animals or indirectly through environmental contamination.
To prevent exposure to other animals within facilities, wildlife rehabilitators are advised to handle wild animals showing clinical signs of HPAI with caution and consider quarantining them. The public is also encouraged to limit unnecessary contact with wild birds and maintain cleanliness of bird feeders and water sources.
Game bird hunters are urged to take precautions such as properly disposing of carcasses, wearing gloves during processing, avoiding sick birds, cleaning tools between carcasses, and cooking meat to appropriate temperatures.
While the risk of avian influenza transmission from birds to humans remains low, the public should still take protective measures if contact with wild animals is unavoidable. More information is available from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Individuals who have had contact with an HPAI-positive animal and develop symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
For sightings of wild animals with signs of HPAI, it is advised to contact your local TPWD wildlife biologist.
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