Canada geese are reportedly dropping lifeless in elements of the Bay State, because the fowl flu virus spreads across the area.
MassWildlife over the previous few days has gotten stories of lifeless and dying Canada geese in Essex County and the encompassing coastal areas.
These wild birds confirmed signs which might be in step with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Several samples have been collected for fowl flu testing, and outcomes are pending.
This comes as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has been detected in Essex County, in keeping with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources’ Division of Animal Health.
State companies have depopulated and disposed of a non-commercial, mixed-species yard flock (non-poultry) in Essex County because of the virus. Birds on the website died all of the sudden with out exhibiting some other scientific indicators per the virus, and samples examined constructive for the illness.
“MDAR advises backyard and commercial poultry owners to practice strong biosecurity measures to prevent domestic poultry from having contact with wild birds, their feathers, and droppings,” the state company mentioned.
“The HPAI virus is continuing to circulate in the wild bird population, particularly in wild waterfowl,” MDAR added. “Eliminating standing water and preventing domestic birds from having access to ponds, streams, and wetland areas that attract wild waterfowl is of critical importance.”
While persons are hardly ever contaminated with avian influenza viruses, people who’ve extended shut contact with sick or lifeless birds contaminated with the virus are at highest threat of changing into contaminated.
“Officials are urging the public not to handle or feed any birds suspected of being infected,” MDAR mentioned. “Pet owners should also prevent their dogs from making contact with wild birds.”
People can report sick or lifeless home birds by calling 617-626-1795 or on-line by way of the Poultry Disease Reporting Form: www.mass.gov/kinds/poultry-disease-reporting-form.
Also, individuals can report sick or lifeless wild birds on-line at www.mass.gov/kinds/report-observations-of-dead-wild-birds.
Source: www.bostonherald.com”