(Lincoln, NE) -- Nebraska Game and Parks is encouraging Nebraskans to use caution until further notice as avian influenza continues to affect waterfowl and other bird species statewide.
Game and Parks says affected birds have been reported across the state in recent weeks and that staff have collected waterfowl, which have been tested for cause of death. Avian influenza was confirmed in several cases. Though the risk of infection to people is low, Game and Parks says the public should avoid contact with sick or dead birds and report them to their local Game and Parks office. You can find a location near you here.
Those compelled to assist in clean-up of the birds to prevent further spread of the disease are required to wear personal-protection equipment, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture protocol. The birds should be double bagged and placed in a dumpster.
Game and Parks says sick birds should be left alone.