Re: Kansas - Pandemic Preparedness
FLU'S CLUES
Wildlife officials will be checking gamebirds this fall for signs of avian flu
By Michael Pearce (
The Wichita Eagle)
August 27, 2006
More than a million gamebirds are expected to be killed in Kansas over the next five months, with wildlife officials expected to take samples from some to test for avian flu.
Odds are extremely long that hunters could catch a deadly strain of the disease that has killed about 140 people in Asia and Africa.
"I would say the odds are much higher something will happen driving to your hunting spot than getting bird flu," said Helen Hands, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks biologist. "There's no need to really worry about it unless you're looking for an excuse to not go hunting."
Hands said bird flus are common in nature, and only occasionally does a strain develop that's a threat to humans.
State and federal agencies have begun sampling migratory birds for the disease. It's feared the disease could be carried from continent to continent, then across countries, by birds during normal fall and spring migrations.
Hands said Wildlife and Parks will collect samples from 750 migratory birds, including shorebirds, ducks, geese and sandhill cranes. Many will be from hunter-killed birds.
Tom Halstead, U.S. Department of Agriculture state director for wildlife services, said his agency will sample about 800 birds. They've already sampled scores of migrating shorebirds netted at the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. USDA biologists will also be collecting 1,000 fecal samples.
Hunters needn't worry about hunting dogs contracting the disease, even if they retrieve an infected bird. The deadly strain of avian flu has never been found in canines.
Still, hunters are advised to follow handling and cooking guidelines:
• Don't eat birds that appear to be weakened or diseased.
• Wear rubber gloves when cleaning game, and avoid touching your face during the process. If you've been handling birds, don't smoke, eat or drink until you've thoroughly cleaned your hands.
Thoroughly wash all knives, cutting boards and bowls after cleaning and preparation.
• Be sure all fowl is thoroughly cooked to 165 degrees or more before eating.
• Anyone feeling ill after handling birds should be examined as soon as possible, and mention they've been handling birds.
Hunters are urged to report any bird die-offs that include more than five waterfowl or wading birds in one area. Hands suggests calling the nearest Wildlife and Parks office. In Wichita, that's 316-683-8069. In the Pratt area call 620-672-5911. The USDA number is 866-487-3297.
Source:
www.kansas.com/mld/kansas/sports/15370153.htm
