The United States is struggling to address a growing bird flu outbreak, with little government intervention to protect hunters from the highly infectious HN51 strain. Unlike its response to COVID-19, the federal government seems reluctant to take action.
Bird flu has affected both domestic and wild birds, resulting in significant losses worldwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends precautions for bird hunters, but a vaccine is not yet available.
According to recent reports, 68 human cases of avian flu have been reported in the US, with one death attributed to a Louisiana poultry worker. However, unlike COVID-19, which has a life-saving vaccine, there is no known treatment or prevention method for bird flu.
The outbreak has been linked to migration and the movement of infected poultry to production facilities, where it can spread quickly. Wild birds, such as geese, ducks, and shorebirds, are particularly vulnerable to infection.
The CDC cautions hunters that even if an infected animal shows no symptoms, they may still be at risk. To minimize the risk, hunters are advised to wear gloves, eye protection, and a face mask while handling dead birds, and to thoroughly wash their hands afterwards.
As the state’s duck season closed last month, Ohio wildlife officials have reported finding dead birds in several counties that were presumed to be infected with the HPAI strain. The Ohio Division of Wildlife is working to address the issue, but the lack of government action remains a concern.
Source: https://eu.dispatch.com/story/sports/outdoors/2025/02/02/bird-flu-symptoms-2025-prevention-ohio-eggs-milk/78092690007