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IMAGE: USGS wildlife disease specialist Kimberli Miller collects field samples from a white-nose syndrome positive cave in Vermont. view more
Credit: USGS
The risk is low that scientists could pass coronavirus to North American bats during winter research, according to a new study led by the U.S. Geological Survey. Scientists find the overall risk to be 1 in 1,000 if no protective measures are taken, and the risk falls lower, to 1 in 3,333 or less, with proper use of personal protective equipment or if scientists test negative for COVID-19 before beginning research.
The research specifically looked at the potential transmission of SARS-CoV-2, which is the type of coronavirus that causes COVID-19, from people to bats. Scientists did not examine potential transmission from bats to people.
North Dakota braces for big increase in deer disease numbers Follow Us
Question of the Day
By BLAKE NICHOLSON - Associated Press - Monday, February 15, 2021
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - Chronic wasting disease in North Dakota deer appears on the verge of accelerated growth a development expected by state wildlife officials but not necessarily this soon.
Eighteen deer killed by hunters last fall tested positive for the fatal disease that strikes the nervous system in deer and also in elk and moose, according to the state Game and Fish Department.
That brings the total number of deer cases since the initial discovery of the disease in North Dakota in 2009 to 44 with 30 of them in just the past two years.
Chronic wasting disease in North Dakota deer appears on the verge of accelerated growth a development expected by state wildlife officials but not necessarily this soon.
Fish and Game officers investigate duck deaths
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
SALMON, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK)-
UPDATE: 12-18 Idaho Fish and Game Department officials believe the ducks found dead near Salmon may have been killed by acute Aspergillosis infection, a respiratory illness. It is caused by a fungus commonly found in soil, dead vegetation, compost piles, and moldy grains.
Preliminary necropsies were sent to the National Wildlife Health Center. Laboratory test results have not been completed. Formal results will depend on several more tests, which may take up to two weeks to complete.
The number of dying ducks has slowed, by Idaho Fish and Game continues to search the site and surrounding areas. Over 100 ducks, all mallards, have been found since the initial reports were filed.