JEFFERSON CITY, Mo - The Missouri Department of Conservation is investigating multiple reports of sick and dead waterfowl across the state. Testing has confirmed that the cause is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or as it is more commonly known, “bird flu.”

Birds can contract bird flu through contact with infected nasal discharges, saliva or feces. Migratory birds can carry HPAI and it can move between wild birds and domestic poultry. Symptoms to look for in sick birds include head tilting, lethargy, tremors, loss of coordination, inability to fly or walk properly or trouble standing upright.

The risk of HPAI to the general public is low, human infections have occurred after close exposure. The Missouri Department of education encourages hunters and others to take the following

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