TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) say they continue to detect highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and the H5NI virus in at least 30 counties in Indiana.
According to the DNR, HPAI has been detected in wild birds in the following counties: Adams, Allen, Bartholomew, Benton, Boone, Clinton, Decatur, Gibson, Greene, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Henry, Huntington, Jackson, Jasper, Lake, LaPorte, Marion, Newton, Pike, Porter, Randolph, Ripley, Shelby, Starke, Tippecanoe, Union, Vanderburgh, and Vermillion.
Also, the DNR says that since January, more than 1,500 sandhill cranes have been affected by HPAI, resulting in the deaths of many sandhill cranes in Greene, Jackson, Jasper, LaPorte, Newton, Starke, and Union counties.
HPAI is a disease caused by an influenza virus that usually spreads among birds, specifically waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors, according to the DNR.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the public risk for HPAI is low, but it is still possible for humans to contract the virus. Notably, people who have close contact with infected animals and their environment.
“Members of the public should avoid contact with sick waterfowl and other sick wildlife whenever possible. However, if it is necessary to remove a carcass, safely dispose of it by wearing a mask and disposable gloves to double bag any carcasses and place them in a secure trash container. Wash hands immediately after with soap and warm water. Alternatively, a wildlife control operator can be hired to remove carcasses.”
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources
If you find sick or dead wild birds, the DNR says to report them at on.in.gov/sick wildlife.
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