Recent news of a particularly virulent strain of AI called "highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1" is causing concern because it is a threat to domestic poultry and is responsible for the death of at least 57 people in Asia from winter 2003-04 to August 2005. Those people presumably contracted the virus via direct handling or consumption of infected domestic poultry. However, there are increasing reports that HPAI H5N1 is infecting migratory wild birds raising fears it might spread into new areas including North America that could pose potential danger to those who handle wild birds, including hunters.

As Louisiana bird hunters anticipate and participate in our outstanding bird hunting opportunities, it is important to know that at this time HPAI H5N1 has NOT been detected in North America and there is no known case where AI has been passed from wild birds to humans. Although the possibility of the disease arriving here via migrating birds cannot be ruled out, the probability is very small, and it would most likely be detected first in Alaska or along the west coast.

As a general rule, people should enjoy wildlife from a distance to both minimize disturbance and eliminate exposure to any wildlife-borne health concerns. Do not handle wild birds, especially if sick or dead. Because of their greater contact with wild birds, hunters should not handle or eat sick birds, use disposable gloves while cleaning game and make sure all game is thoroughly cooked.

For more information, contact Larry Reynolds at 225-765-0456 or lreynolds@wlf.louisiana.gov.