Missouri Warns of Bird Flu as Fall Bird Migration Begins

It's no secret that a huge number of birds have started the Fall migration, but that brings with it an alert from Missouri authorities about bird flu concerns.

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The Missouri Department of Conservation has released a bulletin asking for the public's help in identifying possible bird flu cases as millions are traveling across the state. Their warning says that both hunters and residents need to be watchful and take precautions as the Fall migration continues.

For hunters, they advise that any game birds that are harvested be dressed in the field away from poultry and other birds. Residents are advised to avoid touching any sick or dead birds and keeping pets away from them, too. If you see what you believe to be a sick bird, you are asked to contact the Missouri Department of Conservation as they are tracking activity of migrating birds and any associated flu that is being carried to new areas as a part of that.

The good news is human infections from bird flu are rare. However, precautions need to be taken as it's not impossible. Symptoms of bird flu in humans include eye redness, respiratory problems, and fever. The Missouri Department of Conservation advises seeking healthcare immediately if you believe that you've been in contact with a sick bird and have these symptoms.