What precautions can be taken to reduce the risk from infection from wild birds in the United States?

Answer:

At present, there are no documented cases of human H5N1 infection caused by contact with live wild birds. As a general rule, however, the public should observe wildlife, including wild birds, from a distance. This protects you from possible exposure to pathogens and minimizes disturbance to the animal.

• Avoid touching wildlife. If there is contact with wildlife do not rub eyes, eat, drink, or smoke before washing hands with soap and water.
• Do not pick up diseased or dead wildlife.
• Contact your state, tribal, or federal natural resource agency if sick or dead animals are found.
• If you must dispose of a dead bird, pick it up with an inverted bag or disposable glove; place the bird in another bag and dispose of it in the trash. Trash receptacles should be secured so that children pets and animals do not have access to them.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Related Bird & Animal Frequent Questions

• What kinds of wild birds primarily carry avian influenza?
• What if a wild bird infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is found on a National Wildlife Refuge?
• Should wild birds be culled if they are infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)?
• What precautions can hunters take to reduce the risk for infection from avian influenza when hunting birds in the United States?
• Has avian influenza been found on any National Wildlife Refuge?
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Last Updated: 03/21/2007