Risk of catching the disease for humans remains low, but people in contact with animals have higher chances of contracting infection
Public health officials are on alert since avian flu was found in dairy cows across six states, including New Mexico, as well as an outbreak at the nation’s largest fresh egg producer.
The risk for humans contracting the infection remains low, according to federal health officials, but increases for people who come into contact with animals.
A Texas dairy worker contracted avian flu after being in contact with sick dairy cows this week, the second case reported in the U.S.
New Mexico’s top veterinarian Samantha Uhrig said that the state remains in much of the same position since news about infections hit the region in late March. Two dairies have confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza cases, and one other dairy with suspected cases is waiting on results from federal tests.
“We haven’t had any additional reports for the last week and half,” Uhrig said Thursday.
The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is posting daily updates on confirmed avian flu cases. The federal agency reported the cases in New Mexico on April 1. The site includes additional resources and practices for keeping domestic animals safe.
Avian flu confirmed in NM dairy cows in two Curry County herds
Avian flu mostly impacts birds, carried in reservoirs passed through migration.
Dabbling ducks can often carry and shed the virus, which can be devastating to other birds – and now other animal populations.
During migration season, sickened birds can pass it to domestic birds if they share water and food. Cats, birds of prey and other animals that eat sick or dead infected birds can become infected.
Federal and state investigators are still determining how dairy cows got infected, and are trying to see if migratory waterfowl contaminated the dairies’ feed or water supplies.
“Everything in that flight path is liable to be susceptible or exposed,” Uhrig said.
BirdCast has a migration tool to see where the biggest concentrations of migratory birds are located across the country.
The state veterinarian shared some tips on protecting yourself and animals from avian flu around domestic animals.
What to look for
In cows, there are two clear signs for this syndrome, Uhrig said, a loss of appetite and drop in milk production.
“Feed intake changes may be very subtle, but the drop in milk production is pretty dramatic,” she said. “Usually within about 48 hours, you’re seeing a remarkable change.”
Uhrig said a single cow is not an indicator.
“But if you’ve got a bunch of cows that suddenly are dropping and milk production over a very short period of time, that’s pretty good indication and worth notifying certainly the herd veterinarian and our office as well,” she said.
A list of all state veterinarians can be found here.
An unfortunate sign is a spate of sudden dead animals, such as birds or cats.
Infected animals can present neurological symptoms during an avian flu infection. Some of the most common signs in birds and cats are stumbling, an inability to hold up their heads or extreme lethargy.
Who can I call?
If you’re unsure if a wildlife rehabilitation center is in your area, call the county or tribal extension office – a resource from the New Mexico State University.
A list of New Mexico extension offices can be found here.
The progression of the disease can be rapid, and turkeys and chickens often experience high death rates.“Within just a couple days time birds will go from being okay to being dead, or very ill and dying quickly,” Uhrig said.
What can you do?
For backyard flock keepers, it’s important to maintain hygiene and keep wild birds away from domestic ones.
Wearing overshoes that can be sanitized after wear is advised. Wash hands with soap and warm water before and after touching poultry.
Putting up wire on an open outdoor enclosure, and keeping separate water for wild and domestic birds is another good start.
Washing water systems, preferably daily, will prevent not just avian flu, but a host of other infectious diseases.
“Cleaning that water frequently, if it’s every day, or even twice a day, that’s a great,”
Uhrig said. “There’s other diseases besides avian flu.”
If a wild bird is injured or behaving strangely, consider contacting professionals such as wildlife rehabilitators or animal control.
If you have to transport a sick bird, don’t touch it with your bare hands, Uhrig said. Use gloves, wrap the bird in a towel and place it in a cardboard box.
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