INDIANA – The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) caused the death of waterfowl in Gibson County in December and is investigating suspected HPAI-related waterfowl deaths in multiple counties across the state. Over the past six weeks, the counties affected include Allen, Benton, Hamilton, Lake, LaPorte, Newton, Pike, Porter, Starke, Tippecanoe, and Vermillion.
This recent surge in HPAI cases is part of a broader pattern of detections in Indiana, with 98 positive cases since 2022. DNR began monitoring waterfowl and raptors for the virus in 2022, increasing surveillance with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Given the heightened testing, more HPAI detections are anticipated.
The species most affected by HPAI include snow geese and Canada geese. However, the virus has also been found in other waterfowl species, such as mute swans, tundra swans, mallards, American white pelicans, common goldeneyes, and double-crested cormorants.
Wildlife officials urge the public to report any dead waterfowl that appear to have no apparent cause of death or show signs of illness. Suspected cases of HPAI in waterfowl should be reported online at on.IN.gov/sickwildlife.
Signs of HPAI in Waterfowl Include:
- Sudden death
- Neurological issues (e.g., lack of coordination, swimming in circles, tremors, twisted neck)
- Loss of energy and appetite
- Swelling of the head, neck, and eyes
- Nasal discharge, cough, sneezing, and diarrhea
Though the public health risk remains low, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service advises waterfowl hunters to take extra precautions when processing harvested birds. Protective gear such as gloves and face masks should be worn, and processing should take place in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. All waterfowl meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the risk of human infection with HPAI is low. However, humans can contract the virus, so it is recommended to avoid contact with sick or dead waterfowl. If contact is unavoidable, it’s important to wear disposable gloves and a mask, and to wash hands thoroughly afterward.
Anyone who develops flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, cough, or sore throat within 10 days of handling waterfowl should contact a healthcare provider for guidance.
HPAI can also affect other animals, including poultry, cattle, and even household pets like cats. If you have domestic animals, particularly poultry, be sure to follow strict biosecurity measures and process harvested waterfowl away from your animals.
For additional details on HPAI and biosecurity measures, visit on.IN.gov/avian-flu and aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/defend-the-flock.
For concerns about sick or dead poultry, residents are encouraged to report the incident to the Indiana Board of Animal Health at IN.gov/boah/species-information/avianbirds/small-flock-and-exhibition-poultry/sick-andor-dead-poultry-questionnaire/.
