Bird flu

News Release
National Wildlife
Refuge System
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge
Savanna District Contact: Ed Britton
7071 Riverview Road 815-273-2732
Thomson IL 61285
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 19, 2024

Suspected Return of Bird Flu

Bird flu has apparently returned to our local area on the Upper Mississippi River. Although no birds have
been clinically tested, sick birds are displaying symptoms of bird flu. The last outbreak of bird flu along
this section of river was summer 2022 when thousands of waterbirds were killed. Currently, dead and sick
Tundra swans, Canada geese and several species of waterfowl are being reported. Due to the possibility of
human exposure, do not pick up sick or dead birds along or adjacent to the river. If a dead bird is in a
location that may result in exposure to humans or pets, cautiously (wearing gloves and mask) place the
carcass in a trash bag and properly dispose of it.
Bird flu is scientifically referred to as highly pathogenic avian influenza. Wild birds seldom display
clinical signs when infected making them a good source for virus transmission. This highly contagious
virus is a major reservoir for influenza A viruses which can infect poultry, dogs, cats, pigs, fox, cattle and
humans.
This virus infects the bird’s digestive system, in contrast to the respiratory infection in humans and other
animals. The infection causes the virus to be passed in their feces, allowing for wide geographic
transmission within wild birds and other species.
Human infections with the bird flu virus are increasing due to an increase of poultry infections on
commercial farms and cattle infections on dairy farms. The most effective control to minimize exposure,
is to keep humans and domestic animals away from healthy, sick, and dead wild birds.
The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is the most visited refuge in the
United States. The refuge extends 261 miles along the Upper Mississippi River from Wabasha,
Minn. to Rock Island, Ill., protecting and preserving habitat for migratory birds, fish, and a
variety of other wildlife.