Excerpts from: What Hunters Should Know About Avian Influenza, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, September, 2005
Susceptibility of Other Animals to Avian Influenza
Although influenza strains are common in many groups of birds, information on infection and impacts to other animal groups is not complete. Recent literature demonstrates that H5N1 can infect pigs and cats (wild and domestic).
Safe Preparation and Cooking of Game Animals
Even apparently healthy wild birds can be infected with other microorganisms and parasites that can move between wildlife and people. Therefore, it is always a wise and safe practice to wear some basic protection, and keep tools and work surfaces clean when preparing game animals. Clean and sanitary handling of animals and meat prevents common infections that can become serious.
Viruses like H5N1 are shed from birds in fluid discharges and fecal material, so avoiding contact with these materials while plucking and cleaning birds is a good practice. Most viruses do not persist very long after they have left their host and can be neutralized with heat, drying, and disinfectants.
Practical hygiene for hunters includes:
- Do not handle or butcher game animals that are obviously sick or are found dead;
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while cleaning game;
- Wear rubber gloves and washable clothing when cleaning game;
- Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol wipes immediately after handling game;
- Wash tools and working surfaces with soap and water, then disinfect with a 10 percent solution of chlorine bleach; and
- Place uncooked game in a plastic bag or container for transport.
- Cook game meat thoroughly; poultry should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
