Bird flu cases confirmed in several Indiana counties

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Indiana Department of Natural Resources confirmed several cases of bird flu in wild birds across the state, including vultures and waterfowl in some southern Indiana counties.

The Indiana DNR confirmed in a news release Friday that the highly pathogenic avian influenza was found in a blue-winged teal in Greene County, which is west of Bloomington.

The DNR also said the bird flu is the cause of death in black vultures in Jefferson County and the suspected cause of death in black vultures in Franklin County.

The DNR said signs of HPAI in waterfowl and raptors include:

Sudden death
Neurological impairment like lake of coordination, swimming/walking in circles, tremors and twisted neck)
Lack of energy and appetite
Swelling of the head, neck and eyes
Nasal discharge, cough, sneezing, and diarrhea

If you find wild waterfowl or raptors that are dead or showing the above signs, report it online by clicking here.

The public health risk for the bird flu is low, but humans can contract it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People should avoid contact with sick waterfowl or other wildlife. If it is necessary to remove a carcass, use disposable gloves and a mask, double bag the carcass and put it in the trash, or use a tool to pick up and dispose of it. Wash hands with soap and water immediately after.

For processing waterfowl, hunters should be in a well-ventilated area or outside and wear a face mask and gloves. Some domestic and agriculture animals including poultry, cattle and cats, are known to be susceptible to HPAI, so harvest and dispose of waterfowl properly.

Meat harvested from waterfowl should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees before consumption.

If you have the following symptoms after coming into contact with waterfowl, report it to the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH):