What precautions can hunters take to reduce the risk for infection from avian influenza when hunting birds in the United States?

Hunters should follow routine precautions when handling game, including wild birds. The U.S. Geological Survey’s National Wildlife Health Center recommends that hunters:

• do not handle or eat sick game;
• wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling and cleaning game, wash hands with soap and water (or with alcohol-based hand products if the hands are not visibly soiled), and thoroughly clean knives, equipment, and surfaces that come in contact with game;
• do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling animals;
• disinfect tools, gloves, and materials that come into contact with killed birds;
• place uncooked game in a plastic bag or container for transport; and
• cook all game thoroughly – cooking to 165 degrees Fahrenheit kills the virus.

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