Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Dec. 14, 2024 – There have already been several reports of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), better known as bird flu, in Northeast Arkansas this December.

Jonesboro Animal Control (JAC) Adoption Rescue Coordinator Kayleigh England said since the bird flu epidemic spread to the United States a few years ago, the JAC has seen a few cases every year, however they have already logged 10 cases this month alone.

“We are only seeing it in the wild bird populations right now,” she said.

These wild birds include waterbirds, like ducks and geese, and birds of prey, such as hawks and owls.

She also noted that bird flu can and has spread from wild birds to domesticated animals such as poultry and cows as is happening in other parts of the country.

“It’s rare but it can spread to people and pets as well,” England said.

England said this is why it is important to call Animal Control at 870-935-3920 if you suspect that a bird might have HPAI. Although there have been no cases in humans in Arkansas yet, she said there have been two cases of people catching the virus in the United States since April.

Symptomatic birds will act abnormally lethargic, exhibiting signs such as coughing, sneezing or gasping for air, and nasal drainage; confusion and lack of fear toward humans and pets; tremors or lack of coordination; swelling around the head, neck and eyes; inability to fly for more than a few feet; and will not eat or drink.

Additionally, waterfowl and other birds that flock together may also experience die-offs in a concentrated area.

If you or your pet do encounter a possibly infected animal, England said you should wash and sanitize your hands immediately, monitor your and/or your pet’s health, and seek medical attention from your doctor or veterinarian if you start showing cold-like and upper respiratory symptoms.

The JAC are not the only ones to see an increase in numbers. In fact, Southwest Drive Animal Clinic Veterinarian, Dr. Archie Ryan, said he has already seen 30 cases himself, more specifically avian influenza type A H5N1.

“The H5N1 virus is transported mostly through young migratory birds,” Ryan said. “We’ve seen a fairly large number of birds locally, including snow geese and speckled belly geese.”

The H5N1 virus can spread from the migratory birds like geese and ducks throughout the food change, affecting other animals such as eagles, hawks, bears, penguins, etc.

As far as pets, he said that he has only seen one so far, which was a pet falcon.

According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, HPAI was detected in North America for the first time in 2021. Arkansas experienced its first outbreak of HPAI in 2022, with illness mostly reported in light geese.

HPAI continues to be detected sporadically in wild birds across North America. Hunters should remain observant of bird health and report any sick birds or unusual mortality to agfc.health@agfc.ar.gov.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, public health risk from HPAI is considered low, but people should avoid handling sick or dead birds found in the wild.

Safety guidelines for hunters include:

  • Harvest only waterfowl that act and look healthy. Do not handle or eat sick animals.
  • Field dress and prepare game outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
  • Wear disposable gloves while handling and cleaning game.
  • Clean ducks as soon as possible after harvest and dispose of unwanted parts in a manner that prevents scavenging by domestic animals and wildlife.
  • Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling carcasses.
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after cleaning harvested game. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Clean knives, equipment and surfaces that come into contact with game.
  • Thoroughly cook all game to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before eating it.
  • After handling waterfowl, change clothes and footwear before coming into contact with pet birds and domestic poultry.