Wild geese carrying bird flu have migrated into Kansas. Are humans at risk?
Wild geese carrying bird flu — formally known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) — have migrated into the state.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture said no cases of bird flu have been detected in any domestic or commercial flocks, only in the wild.
“The virus has been detected in wild birds across the state over the first few weeks of November, so the Kansas Department of Agriculture reminds poultry owners that the threat of exposure to susceptible birds in Kansas is high,” the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks announced Monday in a news release.
Avian flu can infect chickens, game birds, turkeys and other birds and can cause severe illness or sudden death. Bird flu infections among people are rare, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Anyone who comes across a migratory bird acting abnormal is encouraged to call the KDWP or their local game warden.
“KDWP may not collect or investigate each report due to staff availability,” a social media post said. “Many times, nature is allowed to take its course without intervention.”
Residents should not touch or come near any birds that appear sick or injured, state officials said.
On Monday, the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office reported sightings of sick-looking geese in the area.
“Our local reservoirs and the surrounding areas have been experiencing a high number of sick migratory birds, primarily geese,” the sheriff’s office said.