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Handling Wild Birds

Topic Overview

It is best not to handle live or dead wild birds. If you cannot avoid handling a wild bird, wear protective gloves and use a doubled plastic bag to dispose of it. Avoid contact with blood, body fluids, and feces from the bird. After you handle the bird, be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water. You can follow the steps in Handling a Dead Bird.

Follow these guidelines for handling game meat:

  • Use safe food-handling practices, such as washing your hands and keeping uncooked poultry and egg products separate from other foods.
  • Wash your hands well with soap and warm water before handling food and after handling raw meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs.
  • Cook the meat all the way through until the inside temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  • Clean tools and work surfaces with hot, soapy water and a household cleaner.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease
Last Revised July 14, 2010

Last Revised: July 14, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease

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