Texas wildlife officials warn of avian flu risk as migratory birds arrive

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is urging caution as highly pathogenic avian influenza circulates among wild birds across the state during winter migration season.

The highly contagious virus has been detected in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, and transmits easily among wild and domestic birds through direct contact and environmental contamination, according to TPWD.

The virus poses particular risks to domestic cats, skunks, foxes, raccoons, bobcats, mountain lions and black bears, which typically contract the disease by consuming infected animal carcasses. Backyard poultry can also become infected through contact with wild birds.

Infected birds may show neurological symptoms including incoordination, stumbling, lethargy, trembling or seizures, though some infected birds show no outward signs. The virus spreads through contact with infected birds and contaminated equipment, clothing and shoes.

While transmission risk to humans remains low, TPWD recommends the public limit unnecessary contact with wild birds. Officials advise cleaning bird feeders and water sources every two weeks with a solution of one part household bleach to nine parts water, changing birdbath water every few days and removing wet feed regularly.

Game bird hunters should wear gloves when processing birds, avoid handling sick animals, clean and disinfect tools between carcasses and cook meat to proper temperatures, according to the agency.

Wildlife rehabilitators who suspect avian influenza in an animal should contact TPWD within 24 hours. Anyone who has contact with an infected animal and develops signs of illness should immediately contact a health care provider.

More information is available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Texas Animal Health Commission and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.