Health officials in Missouri have confirmed a bird flu outbreak in St. Louis County and several nearby communities. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) said that several wild birds tested positive for the highly contagious bird flu virus, known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
According to the MDC, the dead birds were found in different parts of the state, but St. Louis County has reported the highest number of cases so far. Seven wild birds in the county tested positive for the virus. Other counties in Missouri also reported infected birds.
Experts say the outbreak shows that the virus is spreading among wild birds in Missouri. The bird flu can spread easily among birds through contact with infected droppings, feathers, or surfaces.
Officials are warning people not to touch or handle any sick or dead birds they find. Instead, they should report such cases to the Missouri Department of Conservation or local wildlife offices. People who raise chickens or other poultry are also being told to take extra care to protect their flocks.
The MDC advised poultry owners to keep their birds away from wild birds, make sure their cages are clean and covered, and avoid sharing equipment with other farms.
So far, there are no reports of bird flu spreading to humans in Missouri. Health experts say the risk to people is low, but anyone who has flu-like symptoms after touching birds should contact a doctor.
Bird flu is mostly found in wild and domestic birds, but in rare cases, it can spread to mammals or humans. It can cause big problems for farmers if it spreads to poultry farms.
Officials say they will keep testing and watching bird populations across the state. If the virus spreads to farm animals, the state may add more safety rules or restrictions to control it.
For now, people are advised to be careful, report sick or dead birds, and follow safety steps to help stop the spread of the bird flu in Missouri.
