Department of Natural Resources Issues Warning to Waterfowl Hunters About Bird Flu

(KNSI) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is issuing a warning to waterfowl hunters about taking precautions to help stop the spread of bird flu.

Early duck and goose hunting begins on Saturday across the state. The DNR says hunters need to be careful when handling downed birds because they’re already getting reports of highly pathogenic avian influenza in wild and domestic birds. Bird flu was detected earlier this year in Minnesota. Since the start of summer, the state has seen a lull in cases, but it resurfaced in a commercial flock in Meeker County last weekend.

Hunters might see DNR staff at some landings during the season where voluntary sampling for avian influenza will be happening.

While the virus presents a low risk to humans, officials say to avoid contact with sick birds and be mindful that the virus can also be moved around on hunting equipment.

Officials advise:

*Do not handle or eat sick game.
*Field dress and prepare game outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
*Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling and cleaning the game.
*When done handling the game, wash hands thoroughly with soap or disinfectant and clean knives, equipment, and surfaces that came in contact with the game.
*Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling animals.
*All game should be thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before being consumed.

If a hunter has found multiple dead birds (five or more of any species) in one place at one time, report the finding to the Minnesota DNR at 888-646-6367. DNR biologists may be interested in recording the possible case to track the virus.

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