Avian influenza confirmed in Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Animal health officials announced highly pathogenic avian influenza had been confirmed in wild birds last week in Tulsa County, Oklahoma. A wild swan and a resident Canada goose showed symptoms and were tested for the virus, which came back positive.
With migratory birds making their way south for the winter, the threat of bird flu is more prominent, and officials urge bird owners to be vigilant and watch for signs of avian influenza in backyard flocks.
Symptoms include coughing; sneezing; nasal discharge; diarrhea; difficulty breathing; depression; lack of energy; decrease in feed or water intake; swelling or purple discoloration of head, eyelids, comb, wattle, and legs; decrease in egg production or misshapen eggs; sudden unexplained death; and quietness among the flock.
The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry is asking poultry owners to report sick or dead birds by calling 405-522-6141.
Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at [email protected] or 620-227-1871.
PHOTO: (Gary Bendig via Unsplash.)
