Krysten Schuler

Assistant Research Professor, Department of Public & Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine

Krysten Schuler, assistant professor in public and ecosystem health, is available to explain what kinds of wild birds and mammals are affected. Schuler says while there is not currently a significant risk for humans, it’s best not to handle sick or dead birds and keep them away from pets.

Schuler says:

“Over the past year, a new avian influenza virus has been introduced to North America and is killing wildlife and poultry. This specific virus is deemed ‘highly pathogenic’ because it causes mortality, which is different than many of the normal influenza strains that birds carry without much difficulty. We have seen a wide variety of wild bird species affected, including waterfowl, raptors such as bald eagles and hawks, owls, vultures and shorebirds.

“In New York, we have also documented red foxes and a striped skunk that were infected and died. Nationally, there have been a number of different mammal species identified with the virus that were presumed to become infected by scavenging bird carcasses.

“There does not appear to be a significant risk to humans, but we recommend not handling and keeping pets away from sick or dead birds. It’s also important to report bird or mammal mortalities to your state wildlife agency.”