NORFOLK, Va. — State veterinarians with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources say sick or dead birds in the area are likely caused by a strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
Dr. John Tracey said the strain is not new and the bird flu is transmitted from wild birds, mainly waterfowl.
“We have this wave of mortality in species in the shorebird species that we have not seen mortality previously,” Tracey said.
Tracy said there are currently several cases of the bird flu that transferred to foxes.
“There have been several infections in several different mammalian species and it's often linked to scavenging of bird carcasses,” Tracey said.
Dr. Charlie Broaddus, a state veterinarian with the Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, said people with backyard chickens or farmers who have outdoor poultry birds should be cautious.
“The spread from the wild birds to domestic poultry, such as someone’s backyard or could be a farmer with a large number of chickens or turkeys," Broaddus said.
Broaddus said owners and farmers need to take precautions to protect their animals.
"The virus is often transmitted by bird droppings... so change your change your boots if you’re going into care for your backyard, chickens, or poultry."
The Department of Wildlife Resources said to contact them if you see 10 or more dead birds in the same area. They also say if you need to pick up a dead bird, use gloves or other protective equipment.