‘Highly infectious’ type of bird flu detected in Henderson County, Kentucky

A “highly infectious” form of bird flu has been detected in two dead birds from a Henderson County wildlife area, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources announced Thursday morning.

A pair of deceased snow geese tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, after they were found dead at Sloughs Wildlife Management Area on Dec. 18.

The risk to humans from HPAI is low, and “meat or eggs harvested from wild or domestic birds does not present a food safety risk when handled or cooked properly,” the news release states.

It is, however, extremely dangerous for birds. The U.S. Department of Agriculturecalls it a “serious disease” that requires “rapid response.” It’s especially contagious in chickens.

“Infected birds spread the virus through their saliva, mucus and feces,” the news release states. “Symptoms of HPAI in infected birds include incoordination, droopy wings, lethargy, unwillingness to fly, swimming in circles and head tremors.”

The department of wildlife release says hunters should take multiple precautions:

• Don’t “harvest” or handle any birds that are “obviously sick or otherwise found dead”
• Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after handling wild birds or getting rid of their carcasses
• When field-dressing a fresh kill, do so outside or in a “well-ventilated” area
• Disinfect knives and cleaning surfaces
• Double-bag feathers and remains and make sure any outdoor trashcan lid is secure enough to keep scavenging animals away
• Thoroughly cook any meat and don’t feed raw meat to dogs or other pets

Hikers who are going to be around wild birds should also wear gloves, change their shoes, and disinfect anything that could have come in contact with the birds – especially if they keep chickens at home.