How concerned should Delaware bird hunters be about Avian Influenza H5N1?
Hunters should be aware of and educated about AI H5N1, but not overly concerned about it at present. Cases of human infections of H5N1 from wild birds are extremely rare and no occurrences have occurred from hunter-harvested birds. Additionally at present, H5N1 has not been found in any birds in Delaware, the Atlantic Flyway or North America. Also, it is not clear how persistent this virus is in wild bird populations or whether wild birds pose a long-distance, long-term means of spreading this disease. More research and surveillance over the coming year will allow better assessments of risks to birds and people in Delaware. Hunters should take common-sense precautions and use good hygiene while hunting, cleaning birds and preparing game for the table.
Related Questions
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- How concerned should Delaware bird hunters be about Avian Influenza H5N1?
