Lethal Avian Flu Surfaces In PA

PENNSYLVANIA — A potentially fatal avian virus that has impacted more than 20 eastern and midwestern states has spread to Pennsylvania. The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus was detected in a wild bald eagle in East Marlborough, Chester County.

That marks the first Pennsylvania case of the virus since it first was identified in North America in December, according to the state game commission.

Tests also are being performed on five wild hooded mergansers recovered from Kahle Lake on the border of Clarion and Venango counties in northwestern Pennsylvania. Four were found dead and a fifth was having neurologic issues and was euthanized.

The virus can lead to sickness of death in turkey, grouse, hawks, eagles, crows, gulls, ravens and even ducks and geese. Signs of infection can include birds circling or having difficulty flying.

While the virus potentially can infect humans, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated the outbreak is primarily an animal health issue. No human cases have been detected or reported in the United States.

Be the first to know what's happening in your community and region. With a free Patch subscription, you'll always be up to date on local and state news: https://patch.com/subscribe.