Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Suspected in Ohio as Officials Test Dead Wild Birds From Multiple Counties

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife has collected and submitted samples from multiple dead wild birds to test for the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Ohio. While awaiting test results from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory, the Division of Wildlife is considering reports of dead birds in Auglaize, Erie, Huron, Lucas, Mercer, Montgomery, Richland, Sandusky, and Warren counties as presumed positive for HPAI.
 
Over the last few weeks, Canada geese, trumpeter swans, and one mallard have been reported dead and are being tested.
 
HPAI has been detected in several states in recent months. The Division of Wildlife is working closely with the Ohio Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and other state and federal agencies to monitor HPAI. The virus does not present an immediate public health concern but avoid handling sick or dead birds as a precaution. 
 
All Ohioans can report sick or dead wild birds suspected of HPAI at 800-WILDLIFE (945-3543) or wildohio.gov.

The following bird species should be reported: 

• Any raptor, such as a bald eagle.
• Waterfowl, such as geese or ducks. 
• Any other large congregation of sick or dead birds. 

HPAI occurs naturally in bird populations and is monitored closely by the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Wildlife Health Center. Native Ohio birds such as shorebirds, raptors, and waterfowl are vulnerable to HPAI. Domestic chickens and turkeys are also vulnerable to HPAI. The virus is transmitted from bird to bird through feeding and interactions.

More information about HPAI is available at aphis.usda.gov.