Bird Hunters in the U.S. and Avian Influenza
July 26th, 2009 | by admin |
Like many viruses, Avian Influenza (AI) has various strains, or subtypes. They are classified as either low pathogenic, or high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Most forms being low pathogenic (very common in waterfowl), causing little or no signs of illness in birds and posing no threat to humans. The high pathogenic viruses which have been the subject of much press are labeled as H5N1 and H7 subtypes. Some strains are extremely infectious – fatal to domestic poultry and threaten human health. The H5N1 strain has been found in Asia, Africa and Europe, affecting millions of poultry and killing humans.
As of August, 2007, this strain has not been found in North America and there is no way of knowing for sure if, or when it may arrive, if ever. However, because the possibility of avian influenza entering the U.S. exists, state and federal agencies are constantly monitoring and testing birds. In fact, this month (September 2007), federal biologists tested North Dakota ducks for bird flu – not for any other reason than there are plenty of ducks in that area, which makes for more samples.
That being said, hunters are cautioned to practice common sense and take reasonable measures to reduce the chance of exposure to any number of existing or potential avian diseases.
While the risk to hunters is low at this time, it is better to err on the side of caution and follow these hygienic practices:
Never handle or eat sick birds, or birds that are found dead.
Wear rubber gloves (or disposable latex gloves) and safety glasses while handling game birds.
Wash hands well with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand cleaner, immediately after handling game.
Thoroughly clean and disinfect all knives, surfaces and clothing that come in contact with birds (10% chlorine bleach solution suggested for disinfection).
Do not eat, drink or smoke when handling birds.
Transport uncooked game in a plastic bag and discard it properly when finished using.
All birds should be thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Never eat raw poultry parts, including eggs. – which is just plain common sense.
By: Lisa T
As of August, 2007, this strain has not been found in North America and there is no way of knowing for sure if, or when it may arrive, if ever. However, because the possibility of avian influenza entering the U.S. exists, state and federal agencies are constantly monitoring and testing birds. In fact, this month (September 2007), federal biologists tested North Dakota ducks for bird flu – not for any other reason than there are plenty of ducks in that area, which makes for more samples.
That being said, hunters are cautioned to practice common sense and take reasonable measures to reduce the chance of exposure to any number of existing or potential avian diseases.
While the risk to hunters is low at this time, it is better to err on the side of caution and follow these hygienic practices:
Never handle or eat sick birds, or birds that are found dead.
Wear rubber gloves (or disposable latex gloves) and safety glasses while handling game birds.
Wash hands well with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand cleaner, immediately after handling game.
Thoroughly clean and disinfect all knives, surfaces and clothing that come in contact with birds (10% chlorine bleach solution suggested for disinfection).
Do not eat, drink or smoke when handling birds.
Transport uncooked game in a plastic bag and discard it properly when finished using.
All birds should be thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Never eat raw poultry parts, including eggs. – which is just plain common sense.
By: Lisa T