Avian influenza detected in migratory birds as feds step up virus detection in California
Birds migrating through California tested positive for avian influenza in recent months, state officials reported, as the virus continues its spread through livestock and wildlife through the state.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife reported Friday that the highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in migratory birds in several different counties across the state, including Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, Los Angeles, San Benito, San Luis Obispo and San Diego.
In recent months, the virus has been detected in California livestock, including Sacramento County turkeys and Central Valley cows. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in recent weeks that California was home to the first infection of a child in the country.
As state and federal authorities continue tracking the virus’ movement, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said it will begin testing raw milk produced in California, and five other states, for the H5N1 bird flu that began spreading throughout dairies in the spring of this year.
The waterfowl and shorebirds flying through California as part of the Pacific Flyway migration route are particularly susceptible to contracting bird flu, the wildlife department said, due to the watery habitat these species flock to.
The virus was previously detected in wild birds in California in July, the department said. This strain of the virus was first detected in the state in July 2022.
The CDC stated the transmission risk to humans is low, but nonetheless urged waterfowl hunters to take extra precautions when handling wild birds.
The wildlife department urged hunters to report dead wild birds and other wildlife through an online form; only harvest waterfowl that look and behave in a healthy manner; and dress game outdoors with the appropriate safety equipment.
This story was originally published December 7, 2024 at 10:13 AM.
