Hunters can check for Avian Flu info

According to a press release by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), hunters and others who recreate in the outdoors can obtain updated information about avian influenza (bird flu) along with precautions to take when hunting and handling harvested ducks and geese online at the NDOW web site, www.ndow.org.

Craig Mortimore, NDOW staff biologist, said there is no current pandemic influenza outbreak. He added there is little evidence migratory birds in Asia have a role in the spread of the virus.

Hunters are urged to always take precautions, including not handling obviously sick birds or birds found dead.

Keep harvested birds cool and clean, do not eat or smoke when cleaning birds, wear rubber gloves when cleaning birds, wash hands with soap and water after cleaning birds, clean tools and surfaces immediately after dressing game and cook game thoroughly.