Early detection of bird flu has been confirmed in wild birds in Sussex County. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, along with the Delaware Department of Agriculture, reported finding over 40 sick or dead snow geese since Dec. 27. The birds were sent to a university laboratory for testing, where H5 avian influenza was found.
This marks the first time highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been detected in wild birds in the Delmarva region since May 2022. The US Department of Agriculture’s Wild Bird Influenza Surveillance dashboard also shows samples from Delaware collected between 2023 and 2024 that tested positive for HPAI.
Wild birds, particularly snow geese, are known carriers of the highly pathogenic strain. As these birds migrate through Delaware each winter, they increase their exposure to the virus. Infected birds can pose a serious risk to domestic poultry, so it’s essential to take precautions.
Hunters and poultry growers are urged to be cautious when handling harvested ducks and geese. Proper handling protocols are available online. Farmers should maintain strict biosecurity measures, particularly for poultry that may have access to areas frequented by free-flying waterfowl and wild birds.
While the risk to public health remains low, residents are advised to take precautions:
– Do not touch or handle sick or dead birds
– Keep children and pets away from affected birds and their droppings
– Cook all poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165°F
– Report sick or dead wild birds immediately
For more information on avian influenza, visit https://de.gov/poultry.
Source: https://eu.delawareonline.com/story/news/local/2024/12/29/wild-geese-tested-for-bird-flu-puts-delawares-poultry-industry-on-alert/77297082007