State blames bird flu for recent waterfowl deaths in Northwest Indiana: Report

State officials attribute the deaths of wild waterfowl in several Indiana counties over the past six weeks to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or bird flu. Since 2022, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has confirmed 98 HPAI cases in waterfowl, primarily affecting snow geese and Canada geese, as well as other species like swans, mallards, and pelicans, reported NWI.com.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the public health risk for HPAI remains low, with no human cases reported in Indiana. However, Hoosiers are urged to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and report sightings of symptomatic wildlife to the DNR. Hunters and the public are advised to use protective measures, including gloves and masks, when handling carcasses.

Bird flu has also impacted Indiana’s commercial poultry industry, with recent outbreaks in Jay County leading to the culling of nearly 400,000 chickens and turkeys. Despite these outbreaks, the State Board of Animal Health assures that cooked poultry, eggs, and pasteurized dairy products are safe for consumption.

Backyard chicken owners should monitor their flocks for symptoms of HPAI and report suspected cases to the USDA Healthy Birds Hotline. As a top national producer of poultry and eggs, Indiana is particularly vigilant about managing the ongoing threat of bird flu.4o