Avian Flu Update April 29, 2022
WBFI MEMBERS & NETWORK:
Thank you to those that asked important questions during our members' webinar last week. If you are a member, you can access the recording through the membership portal to get a recent update from partnered naturalist, Zach Hutchinson.
- We have heard from many experts that their prediction is that in the next few weeks, HPAI should subdue - NEW RESOURCE: HPAI Situation Report
- There still have been no reports or evidence to correlate that avian flu is spread at bird feeders, but we are encouraging hobbyists to follow the lead of their state wildlife agencies.
- NEW RESOURCE! See WBFI's state reference guide.
- Cornell reports Low Risk Of Avian Flu To Songbirds - There is currently a very low risk of an outbreak among wild songbirds, and no official recommendation to take down feeders unless you also keep domestic poultry, according to the National Wildlife Disease Program. We do always recommend that you clean bird feeders and birdbaths regularly
- WBFI encourages you to view the trackers below for the most recent stats on outbreaks:
- Hobbyists should ALWAYS use best feeding practices and clean feeders, birdbaths, and around feeding areas regularly to help stop the spread of diseases in birds.
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- Please encourage hobbyists to visit https://www.wbfi.org/feedsmart/ for resources and more information on how to utilize best bird feeding practices.
- As of April 29, one person has tested positive for avian influenza and developed mild symptoms, in Colorado according to the CDC. This case occurred in a person who had direct exposure to poultry and was involved in the culling (depopulating) of poultry with presumptive H5N1 bird flu. Note that transmission of avian influenza from birds to humans is very rare, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
We will stay on top of the situation, and we pledge to keep you informed of any developments of concern. Please contact info@wbfi.org if you have questions.