The highly pathogenic avian influenza has been found in an American white pelican and other birds across at least four counties.
The Missouri Department of Conservation confirmed a case in Clay County using the National Veterinary Services Lab in Ames, Iowa. The University of Missouri Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Lab confirmed positive birds in Pettis, Randolph and St. Charles counties.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, was first confirmed March 3 in a poultry flock in Stoddard County and a backyard flock in Bates County March 4, according to MDC.
“Avian influenza viruses naturally occur in bird populations, especially waterfowl, shorebirds, and domestic birds such as chickens and turkeys,” said Sherri Russell, MDC State Wildlife Veterinarian, via news release.