3 minute read
Better Understanding AVIAN FLU
Better Understanding AVIAN FLU
By Jennifer Riley
The current bird flu outbreak, more formally referred to as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), started in early 2022 in the U.S. and the situation is continuing to evolve.
We’ve seen the virus first found in wild birds show up in commercial and backyard poultry, wild and domestic mammals, and even humans. Our work as wildlife professionals at the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center in Millwood, in conjunction with all of our actions as humans, can help mitigate the spread.
Typically, HPAI circulates at low levels in wild bird populations, with outbreaks swiftly resolving without major impacts on domestic animals, humans, or broader wildlife populations. However, the current outbreak has been ongoing for over two years and is not staying limited to the wild bird population. It also does not appear to be going away any time soon.
The primary concern arises from the virus’s potential to mutate and better adapt to infect humans. Influenza viruses, often originating in animal populations, undergo constant genetic changes through mutations, occasionally leading to the virus’s ability to infect new host species.
This poses a significant risk, as when bird flu viruses jump from avian to mammalian species, they can acquire mutations that facilitate human-tohuman transmission, potentially sparking major pandemics.
While the overall risk of bird flu transmission to humans remains low, it is not insignificant. Most human infections result from direct contact with infected birds or exposure to contaminated environments such as live poultry markets.
To mitigate the risk, proactive measures are essential:
• Seek guidance from wildlife professionals or use appropriate personal protective equipment when handling wildlife, especially birds and mammals.
• Ensure the safety of backyard poultry by closely monitoring their health and promptly addressing any illnesses with a poultry veterinarian. Limit poultry travel whenever feasible.
• Prevent pets from free-roaming; they may come into contact with infected wildlife without displaying symptoms. Promptly consult a veterinarian if free-roaming pets exhibit signs of illness.
• Exercise caution around visibly ill domestic animals and those appearing healthy, particularly if you have a compromised immune system.
• Support wildlife hospitals and research efforts aimed at protecting both wildlife and public health.
Within our hospital, stringent safety protocols are in place to minimize disease transmission. Initial examinations of high-risk species are conducted outdoors, and staff members follow strict personal protective equipment guidelines. Quarantine measures are enforced for animals awaiting test results, reducing the risk of spread among hospital patients.
Since early in the outbreak, Blue Ridge has participated in surveillance of this disease through a study at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. We test every higher-risk species (waterfowl, raptors, game birds, etc.) as well as birds and mammals with neurological signs.
Over the past two years, we’ve been fortunate to have just three positive HPAI cases in our hospital—a black vulture from Prince William County, a great horned owl from Jefferson County, WV, and a black vulture from Fredericksburg.
By adhering to guidelines, supporting wildlife hospitals, and fostering a holistic approach to health, we protect ourselves and also safeguard the wellbeing of our environment and the diverse species that inhabit it.
Jennifer Riley, DVM, is hospital director for the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center in Millwood, the only dedicated wildlife hospital in Northern Virginia. Details: www.blueridgewildlifectr.org
