Avian Influenza - staying vigilant

Early Detection of Highly Pathogenic (HP) Avian Influenza (AI) in Wild Migratory Birds

The Department of Game, Fish, and Parks (GFP) is working with other state and federal agency cooperators for the early detection of the HPAI H5N1 virus in wild migratory birds in North America.

In 2008, there were approximately 65,000 wild bird and 26,000 environmental samples taken throughout North America and none tested positive for the HP H5N1 virus. GFP personnel collected 821 samples in South Dakota in 2008.

In 2009, GFP intends to sample 600 wild migratory birds, primarily dabbling and diving ducks, and various geese.

Sampling strategies will include capturing live wild birds during duck banding operations, using hunter-harvested birds, and conducting morbidity/mortality surveillance.

 

Sampling will begin on July 1 and will continue through the close of the waterfowl hunting season, with the primary emphasis being in northeast and east central South Dakota.

Samples are submitted to the SDSU Diagnostic Laboratory for testing.

More Information on Avian Influenza:

• Download a brochure on Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in South Dakota (pdf)
• USGS National Wildlife Health Center)
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention
• Other Wildlife-related Diseases