The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission says it is currently tracking highly-pathogenic avian influenza in birds across the state, including multiple cases in northeastern North Carolina.
The commission said new cases of what’s also known as “bird flu” are emerging due to the high numbers of migratory waterfowl that congregate in North Carolina, and particularly the Outer Banks, during the winter.
Additionally, influenza viruses are typically cold hardy and are therefore able to proliferate more easily during the cold winter months, according to the NCWRC.
The news release issued Friday by the commission did not provide details on the exact number or location of where the cases were found.
WTKR-TV reported Wednesday seven cases in waterfowl had been found in Tyrrell and Hyde counties.
“Currently, the birds most likely to be found with HPAI are waterfowl, shorebirds, and raptors, although cases are occurring in songbirds and wild mammal species,” NCWRC stated Friday.
An outbreak had also been reported in early January at the Rose Acre Farms egg production facility near Pantego in Hyde County.
“The best way the public can help prevent the spread of HPAI is by removing food sources that encourage birds to congregate in one location, such as feeding ducks or setting out bird feeders,” NCWRC stated.
If you find dead wild animals, especially five or more dead birds in one area within a week, report it by contacting the N.C. Wildlife Helpline at 866-318-2401 (Monday-Friday, 8 am – 5 pm) or anytime via email at HWI@ncwildlife.org.
For more information on NCWRC’s monitoring of HPAI, please visit the NCWRC website.
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