The Massachusetts spring turkey hunting season begins on April 28 and runs until May 24, with state officials cautioning hunters to be vigilant about bird flu. Given this winter’s significant outbreak in Massachusetts, MassWildlife urges hunters to take precautions, such as wearing gloves while handling birds and reporting any sightings of five or more sick or dead birds to monitor potential outbreaks.
While human infections of bird flu are rare, individuals who have close contact with infected birds, like hunters, are at increased risk. Symptoms of the virus in humans can include fever and cough, which makes it crucial for hunters to prepare their game in the field to minimize contact and ensure safety. With over 60,000 licensed hunters in the state, awareness about these health risks is vital for a safe hunting season.
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