The Saint Louis Zoo announced on February 28 that a wild wood duck was retrieved dead from Cove Lake in the center of the Zoo. Some exhibits have been changed or closed until further notice as a precaution. No birds or other animals under the Zoo’s care have shown signs of or have been diagnosed with bird flu. The Zoo stated that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) does not pose any immediate health concerns for humans at the Zoo.

Avian influenza (bird flu) Type A viruses occur naturally among wild aquatic birds and can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species. These viruses are very contagious among birds, with potential to sicken and kill domesticated bird species such as chickens, ducks, and turkeys. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a category of Avian influenza Type A, which causes severe disease and high mortality in infected poultry.

Preliminary tests indicated the bird was positive for Avian influenza Type A, which is not uncommon for migratory birds. Infected birds can spread bird flu to other animals during migration through contaminated saliva and feces.

Zoo officials are taking steps to protect birds at the zoo including closing exhibits to limit exposure to wild birds and deep cleaning habitats.

Bird flu can affect wildlife, livestock, and pets. Zoo animals can be protected by maintaining clean exhibits and temporarily closing exhibits. Livestock can be protected by enhancing biosecurity and monitoring herds. Pets can be protected by keeping pets away from wild animals and not feeding raw poultry.

We are still learning whether this was a case of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain.