DNR suspects avian flu could be cause of deaths of six Canada geese at Silver Lake Park
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is testing whether six Canada geese found dead at Silver Lake Park died due to the avian flu.
The announcement, made Thursday, followed a report from a Rochester resident who found six dead geese at the park. The DNR has since removed the remains of the geese and has started conducting tests to determine whether the geese died from the disease.
If the geese test positive for the avian flu, City of Rochester employees — who have been engaged in the practice of addling goose eggs to limit the year-round population — will be monitored by the Minnesota Department of Health for potential exposure. Per the city:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, infections among people are rare. However, the disease can spread when enough virus gets into a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth, or is inhaled. The spread of bird flu viruses from one infected person to a close contact is rare, and when it has happened, it has not led to continued spread among people.
Rochester Parks and Rec Director Paul Widman called the number of dead geese with no apparent injuries “rare.” He said the city will continue to follow guidelines provided by Olmsted County Public Health.
“Keeping distance from wildlife is always recommended,” said Widman. “Since geese are currently in their nesting season, they tend to be a bit more aggressive than usual. Park participants are encouraged to stay away from geese and other waterfowl.”
While people are not likely to get avian flu, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance to prevent exposure includes:
Avoid direct contact with wild birds and observe them only from a distance.
Avoid contact with poultry that appear ill or have died.
Avoid contact with surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from wild or domestic birds
Wear gloves and wash your hands with soap and water if you must handle wild birds or sick or dead poultry.
Wear respiratory protection, such as a medical face mask when handling birds.
Change your clothing before contact with healthy domestic poultry and birds.
Residents who raise chickens, ducks or other birds at risk of the avian flu should also follow appropriate precautions, the city said.
Cover photo: File / Licensed via Canva
