The Kansas Department of Agriculture has confirmed the presence of a highly infectious strain of bird flu in the central part of the state.  This is the state’s first confirmed case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in wild waterfowl since 2015.   Cases were also recently detected in southern Missouri.

Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith said confirmed HPAI in wild birds is an indication that Kansas birds are at risk of exposure from the wild migratory bird population.  He said poultry owners need to take steps to protect their flocks from the illness:

• Prevent contact with wild birds, especially wild waterfowl. Remove any potential nesting areas for wild birds.
• Cover and enclose outdoor feeding areas, and cover stored feed.
• Take all possible steps to separate wild birds from having any access to your flock or their living area.
• Clean and disinfect any vehicle tires or equipment that has been on other farms or other locations where there is poultry or wild birds.
• Wear clean clothing, boots and shoes when in contact with your flock.
• Restrict unauthorized people and vehicles.
• Isolate new birds.

The avian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that can infect chickens, turkeys and other birds, and it can cause severe illness and/or sudden death.  At this time it has not been detected in domestic birds in Kansas.

The Sedgwick County Zoo has closed its bird exhibits to the public until further notice.  Many birds have been moved to indoor habitats, and others have had modifications in their habitats to prevent contact with wild birds.   The Zoo has also stopped the sale of fish food available to guests in an effort to encourage wild waterfowl to forage elsewhere.  Penguin Encounters will be on hold until the threat has passed.

This particular strain of avian influenza is not believed to pose a high risk to human health.   It is possible for humans to become infected, but the Centers for Disease Control says the virus does not spread easily from animals to humans.