MANHATTAN — Due to the resurgence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza nationally and in several Kansas counties, Kansas State University's Veterinary Health Center is not currently accepting poultry species or wild birds for treatment.
The precaution is necessary to protect the Veterinary Health Center's patients, including other avian and mammalian species, as well as staff to potential exposure. Other pet birds, such as parrots and canaries, that live indoors will still be seen by center veterinarians.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, or HPAI, is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that affects a wide range of bird species, but has recently been reported to impact certain mammalian species as well, including humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Poultry owners are advised to visit the Kansas Department of Agriculture's webpage on HPAI for resources on enhancing biosecurity measures to protect flocks, as well as for contact information in case any bird is showing signs of avian influenza. Poultry species include chickens, turkeys, quail, pheasants and waterfowl.
Those who find injured or dead wild birds should contact the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks at 620-672-5911. Be prepared to provide a game warden with details on the exact location of the bird, species and description of the problem.
For any additional questions, clients are advised to call the Veterinary Health Center at 785-532-5690 in advance of their visit.