LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — On Wednesday, the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission (AGFC) said new cases of avian influenza were confirmed in Arkansas, Craighead and Lonoke counties.
According to AGFC, biologists conducted aerial surveys of the waterfowl population when they came across a few dead snow geese and Ross's geese, which later tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influence (HPAI).
Additionally, cases have been found in Prairie, Pulaski, Faulkner, Clay and Poinsett counties.
While the risk of contracting the diseases remains low, AGFC said hunters can help minimize the risk by following a few simple precautions:
Harvest only waterfowl that act and look healthy. Do not handle or eat sick animals.
Wear disposable gloves when handling and cleaning game and field dress outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water afterward.
Dispose of unwanted parts in a manner that prevents scavenging by domestic animals and wildlife.
Thoroughly cook all game to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before eating it.
Do not feed pets or domestic animals uncooked portions of waterfowl.
The positive cases of HPAI bring the chance of a "potential for spillover to domestic poultry." AGFC suggested commercial poultry producers might want to implement the biosecurity measures found here.
AGFC also recommended that people handling waterfowl should change or clean clothing, shoes and other equipment before contacting poultry, including commercial production facilities and backyard flocks.
Hunters and wildlife watchers can report unusual bird activity here.
More information on avian influenza is available on USDA APHIS's website.