Hunters should watch out for sick or dead birds, experts warn

SPOKANE, Wash. — Health officials are asking people to avoid contact with wild birds that seem sick or are dead. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has confirmed three cases of bird flu in local Canada geese and an owl.

Bird flu occurs naturally among wild aquatic birds but can pass to other birds — and even domestic poultry — through saliva, feces and contaminated surfaces.

Bird flu doesn't transmit easily from birds to people, but it can happen if people come in direct contact with a sick bird.

As Washington is in the middle of waterfowl and upland bird hunting seasons, hunters should take particular care.

"It is extremely unlikely that hunters could contract bird flu, but they should take precautions to reduce the risk of contracting any wildlife disease," said Dr. Franc