DHMH: State of Maryland

Hunters and employees of waterfowl processing operations may be at increased risk of exposure to avian influenza (AI). Wild birds, in particular certain species of waterfowl and shorebirds, are considered to be the natural reservoirs for avian influenza viruses. Please refer to the following DNR publication for more information about AI infection in these avian hosts: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/Avian_Bird_Flu.asp.

To date, only the low-pathogenic strain of H5N1avian influenza virus has been detected in wild bird populations in Maryland. This strain has been identified in wild birds at numerous sites throughout North America and poses some threat tohuman health. However, the potential threat from other strains of AI in wild bird populations in Maryland may become more significant. This provides information and guidance to individuals whose occupations or hobbies bring them into regular contact with wild migratory birds, such as hunters and waterfowl processors.

Waterfowl processors clean birds and other wildlife bagged by the hunters. Although Maryland currently has no formal process of certification or training for this occupation, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) maintains a licensing program for these processors. Waterfowl processing operations in Maryland are licensed by the DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service. In 2006, 16 permits/licenses were issued to these establishments in five counties, according to the DNR Permits office. During the 2001-2002 season, 16 processing operations processed 14,653 wild fowls. A cottage industry, these operations tend to be small and minimally staffed (sometimes staffed by only one person).

The following five counties are known to have licensed waterfowl processors: Cecil, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne's, and Talbot. The Center for Veterinary Public Health (CVPH) will distribute the list of licensed processors to each of those jurisdictions and will provide general support of outreach efforts.

Transmission of avian influenza viruses to people remains relatively uncommon and in most cases occurs as a result of direct contact with infected poultry or other birds or their feces. The avian flu virus can be transmitted through contact with an infected bird, and/or its droppings, feathers, intestines and blood. Fecal material can contaminate dust, soil, water, feed, equipment, clothing, and feathers.

The following precautions are recommended to reduce the risk of contracting any disease from wildlife:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a mask
• Wear gloves when cleaning game
• Do not eat, drink or smoke when handling birds or carcasses
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water or use instant hand sanitizer/ alcohol wipes
• Clean tools and working area with soap and water; then disinfect surface with 10% bleach solution
• Properly dispose of waste from carcasses
• Cook game birds thoroughly: meat should reach an internal temperature of 155 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill disease organisms and parasites.

It is important to remember that avian flu differs significantly from seasonal or human flu. Get vaccinated annually against seasonal flu as a precaution against the possibility of co-infection with seasonal flu. Maryland residents should be encouraged to contact their local health department with questions about avian flu and/or seasonal flu.

Please refer to the following online resources for additional information:

• What Hunters Should Know About Avian Influenza www.dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/AV_Hunters.asp
• National Wildlife Health Center / USGS: Avian Influenza H5N1 in Wild Birds www.nwhc.usgs.gov
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Guidance Update on Protecting Employees from Avian Flu (Avian Influenza) Viruses http://www.osha.gov/dsg/guidance/avian-flu.html
• Protect Poultry - Protect People http://www.fao.org/docs/eims/upload/207623/FAO_HPAI_messages.pdf
  The FAO has prepared these messages for different categories of people - ranging from poultry keepers, veterinarians and culling teams to the general public. They are intended as advice and, where necessary, they should be adapted to fit local situations.
  

For questions and additional information, please contact SB Wee at 410-767-5441 or by email: sbwee@dhmh.state.md.us

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