Use caution near areas of migrating birds

People are encouraged to use caution as avian influenza is affecting waterfowl and other bird species throughout Nebraska and adjacent states.

Nebraska Game and Parks officials said waterfowl die-offs and sick birds have been reported at water bodies from Niobrara to Alma recently. About 300 dead or dying snow geese have been collected at Harlan County Reservoir and additional ones at locations in northeast and southeast Nebraska. Highly pathogenic avian influenza, or bird flu, has been confirmed in two cases.

Due to the widespread nature of the die-offs and that reservoirs attract waterfowl, gulls, bald eagles and other migrating birds, additional birds may be affected or found.

Though the risk of infection to people is low, officials said the public should avoid all contact with sick or dead birds and report them to their local conservation officer or Game and Parks office. Find contact information at OutdoorNebraska.gov.

Waterfowl hunters or domestic bird owners should take the following precautions:

• Do not harvest or handle birds that appear sick or are dead.
• Wear personal-protection equipment, such as disposable gloves, masks and eye protection, while cleaning your harvest or interacting with birds. Always clean and process birds outdoors.
• Double bag the remaining carcass and dispose of it properly; do not leave the carcass behind for other animals to scavenge.
• Wash your hands immediately after cleaning or handling birds.
• Disinfect all equipment, including hunting gear.
• Cook the meat thoroughly.
• Do not let your dog or other domesticated animals come into contact with sick or dead birds.
• If your animals become sick after interacting with sick or dead birds, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Avian influenza is widespread in wild and domestic birds worldwide, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and has been detected in every state across the U.S. Nebraska Game and Parks continues to monitor and test dead waterfowl as appropriate.