Supporting Tribal Avian Influenza Response
NAFWS Great Lakes Director Don Reiter swabs for avian influenza during the 2023 NAFWS National Conference in Miami, FL.
Wildlife Health Initiative
Tribal fish & wildlife programs need the ability to prepare, monitor, detect, and respond to threats to wildlife health on their lands. Through the Wildlife Health Initiative, NAFWS assists Tribal conservation professionals in all aspects of wildlife disease management, including technical assistance, outreach, training, funding, distribution of educational materials, and regular wildlife health updates on our website.
What is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza?
Avian influenza, or bird flu, is a viral disease that primarily affects birds, especially wild waterfowl and poultry. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) refers to virus strains that cause high mortality with some strains capable of infecting mammals, including humans. Learn more.
The current outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was first detected in poultry from North America in late 2021 and has since spread globally through major migratory flyways. Large-scale die-offs have been reported, millions of domestic poultry have been culled, and the virus has spread to more than 48 mammal species. In March 2025, HPAI H7N9 was identified in the U.S. for the first time since 2017.
Impacts to Tribal Communities
HPAI affects Tribal communities by disrupting wildlife populations, food security, and cultural traditions. Community members, including, wildlife managers, hunters, and livestock owners, may also face increased health risks.
NAFWS Supports HPAI Response
Trainings & Technical Support
NAFWS supports Tribal avian influenza prevention and response with trainings, webinars, technical support, and the Tribal Avian Influenza Resource Hub. Trainings and information sessions are available at regional and national conferences and upon request.
Comprehensive trainings cover HPAI’s impact on domestic and wild animals, essential field safety protocols, sampling techniques, and collaborative discussions to identify key research needs. NAFWS is hosting a two-day Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Training in Anchorage, AK on April 10-11, 2025. A wildlife health workshop will also be offered at the 2025 Annual National Conference in Riverton, WY on May 12-15, 2025.
Check the events calendar for upcoming conferences, trainings, and information sessions. Contact NAFWS staff to request technical support and training events.
Tribal Avian Influenza Resource Hub
In April 2025, NAFWS published the Tribal Avian Influenza Resource Hub. The website provides online and printable resources for Tribal wildlife management, community health & education, hunting & harvesting, cultural practices, poultry & livestock, and for Alaska Native communities.
Tribal Avian Influenza Resource Hub
Information hub for Tribal avian influenza prevention and response
