A free-ranging domestic goose and a Canada goose at Chaparral Park in Scottsdale have tested positive for avian influenza. The Arizona Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed the presence of the virus, which is believed to be the Eurasian strain that has been circulating in North America.
This incident comes after several recent cases of avian influenza reported in Maricopa County and Pinal County, including a case at the Wildlife World Zoo in Litchfield Park. The Arizona Game and Fish Department warns that people under normal circumstances are not considered a health risk from birds with AI.
To prevent the spread of the flu and other respiratory viruses, Maricopa County health officials recommend practicing good hand hygiene, getting vaccinated for seasonal flu and COVID-19, staying home when sick, and wearing masks if necessary. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that the current public health risk is low, despite recent outbreaks.
Residents are advised to report any signs of illness in their poultry to the USDA at 1-866-536-7593 or contact local authorities. The Arizona Game and Fish Department will also be reaching out to falconers and wildlife rehabilitation facilities about the detection to advise them on precautions to take.
Source: https://www.abc15.com/news/state/two-wild-birds-discovered-to-have-avian-influenza-at-scottsdale-park