The Missouri Department of Environmental Protection said St. Louis County had the highest number of cases with seven.
MISSOURI, USA — Numerous dead waterfowl and birds of prey across Missouri confirm a statewide avian flu outbreak.
The Missouri Department of Environmental Protection confirmed the outbreak Friday, saying the carcasses of 11 dead birds tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza. Three other suspected cases are also currently being investigated, according to Conservation Health Director Deb Hudman.
St. Louis County has the highest number of confirmed and probable cases with seven, followed by Dunklin County with four, and St. Charles, Shelby and Crawford counties with one each. Click here for a full list of confirmed and suspected infections.
The virus spreads among birds through contact with infected feces, saliva, or nasal discharge. Bird flu cases also tend to surge in the fall months, when migratory birds travel along the country’s migratory routes, risking spreading the virus to poultry and livestock.
Missouri is marking one year since the first outbreak of avian flu in humans last September. Although the risk of avian flu spreading to the general public remains low, officials still urge caution because human infections have occurred after close exposure.
“HPAI infections in humans are rare,” the Department of Health said in a press release. “Call your health care provider if you develop any unusual symptoms that suggest infection, such as red eyes, respiratory distress, or fever. It is safe to eat poultry that has been properly handled and cooked. Cooking meat to an internal temperature of 165°F helps destroy the virus, if present.”
Conservationists have asked hunters and state residents to help stop the spread of the virus. Hunters were encouraged to separate harvested game birds from other birds, properly dispose of carcasses and trash, and dry hunting equipment thoroughly between trips. Residents have been asked to avoid dead birds and keep pets away from dead or dying wildlife. If you see a dead goose, bird of prey, or other large bird, report it to MDC.
