Bend, OR — Bird flu cases are rapidly increasing in Oregon and across the United States, prompting local wildlife hospitals like Think Wild to issue important guidelines on how to protect pets, people, and wildlife. The rise in avian influenza cases is affecting wild bird populations, domestic poultry, cattle, and, in some rare instances, pets and humans.
Molly Honea, communications coordinator at Think Wild, explained that the H5N1 strain of avian influenza has now been detected in 153 wild bird species across the country. As of the latest reports, more than 10,000 cases of the virus have been confirmed. The wildlife hospital, which provides care for injured and sick wildlife, has been receiving an increase in calls related to potential bird flu cases.
While Think Wild is still accepting native birds for care, strict precautions are being taken. Due to restrictions imposed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), the hospital is not treating waterfowl or shorebirds, as these species can carry the virus asymptomatically. Wild birds, especially migratory species, are known to both contract and spread the virus through their saliva and feces, which can then affect commercial and backyard poultry flocks.
Savanna Scheiner, lead wildlife technician at Think Wild, noted that common symptoms of the virus in birds include neurological issues like seizures or head tremors, as well as respiratory symptoms such as difficulty breathing or lethargy. However, Scheiner emphasized that confirming a bird is infected requires testing by ODFW, which is actively monitoring and tracking outbreaks.
Since the virus spreads primarily during migratory seasons, Think Wild cautioned that wild birds act as both victims and vectors of avian influenza. This year, the virus has extended its reach beyond wild birds to include various mammals, with Oregon reporting its first human case in November 2024, followed by a domestic cat infection in December.
To help reduce the spread of the virus, Think Wild has issued several safety recommendations for the public. First, pet owners are urged to keep cats indoors to prevent them from catching and potentially spreading the virus after consuming infected birds. Additionally, owners should avoid feeding raw poultry to pets, as it may be contaminated with the virus. Think Wild also advises against unnecessary contact with wild birds, especially sick or dead ones, and encourages the use of protective equipment when handling wildlife.
To reduce the risk of transmission, Think Wild recommends removing bird feeders if sick birds are observed and cleaning feeders regularly with a bleach solution. Domestic poultry owners should keep their flocks enclosed and away from wild birds, ensuring no standing water is available that might attract waterfowl. The wildlife hospital also stressed the importance of changing clothes before entering poultry areas and limiting visits to other farms to maintain strict biosecurity measures.
For those who encounter sick or dead wild birds, Think Wild urges the public to report the sightings to ODFW at 866-968-2600 or to contact the Oregon Department of Agriculture for poultry illness at 503-986-4711. The hospital also maintains a wildlife hotline at 541-241-8680 for concerns or questions about avian influenza.
As bird flu cases continue to rise, Think Wild remains committed to protecting both the wildlife in its care and the community by implementing strict protocols, including immediate diagnostics, protective gear for staff, and rigorous cleaning practices. According to Dr. Laura Acevedo, Think Wild’s veterinarian, these measures are crucial in preventing the further spread of the virus.
With migratory patterns expected to continue throughout the year, Think Wild’s precautions, alongside public awareness and careful action, are essential in minimizing the impact of avian influenza on Oregon’s wildlife, pets, and human populations.
