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Waterfowl Hunting Avian Influenza Safety Recommendations

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is an infectious respiratory disease carried by both wild and domestic birds. During the fall and winter migration, waterfowl hunters in Oklahoma may encounter sick, dying, or dead migratory birds.

The current strain circulating in North America (H5N1) is transmissible to humans, but it continues to pose a low risk to people and dogs. However, HPAI represents a significant threat to domestic and commercial poultry. The virus is spread through contact with saliva, mucus, and feces of infected birds. Taking appropriate precautions while handling harvested migratory birds is important to protect yourself and to prevent the accidental spread of the disease—particularly if you own or are around domestic poultry.

A duck sits centered on a glossy water background.
Tyler Tiblow

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and CDC recommend the following general safety guidelines for hunters handling wild birds:

  • Do not handle or consume birds that are found dead or appear sick.
  • Field dress and prepare harvested game outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
  • Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves when handling and cleaning game.
  • After handling birds, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or use a disinfectant.
  • Clean and disinfect knives, equipment, and surfaces that come into contact with game.
  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling harvested birds.
  • Thoroughly cook all game to an internal temperature of 165°F before consumption.
  • Dispose of carcasses using burial or double-bagging methods.

In addition to these recommendations, hunters—especially those who raise domestic poultry—are encouraged to disinfect equipment and clothing that may have come into contact with wild birds. This includes truck beds, boots, waders, game straps, and other gear. A mild bleach solution is effective for disinfection:

Mild bleach solution:

  • 4 fluid ounces of bleach per 1 gallon of water

 

 

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