DELMARVA - As avian influenza continues to spread, some hunters on Delmarva are taking extra precautions to stay safe.
While the risk of transmission to humans remains low, experts say hunters should still take steps to protect themselves. Although duck and goose hunting seasons have ended in Delaware and Maryland, snow geese are still in season.
David Fletcher of Nanticoke Outfitters encourages hunters to remain cautious.
“There are a lot of opportunities for hunters to come in contact with the flu,” Fletcher said. “That’s why it’s so important that we talk about it.”
Last week, birds killed by hunters in Pennsylvania tested positive for bird flu. Fletcher said safety measures should extend beyond the hunt, especially when handling game in the kitchen.
“There are a lot of precautions we take, such as wearing gloves when dressing birds, sanitizing our equipment—knives, scissors, whatever we might be using—as well as the surfaces we’re cleaning birds on,” he said.
Delaware’s Division of Fish and Wildlife advises hunters to take several precautions, including:
- Avoid handling sick or dead wildlife.
- Wear masks, gloves and eye protection when handling game.
- Properly dispose of carcasses.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling birds.
Fletcher also emphasized the importance of cooking game to the proper temperature.
“As long as hunters are cooking that meat to 165 degrees, it will kill off the virus,” he said. “It’ll kill off any virus in that meat.”
Officials urge residents to report any sick or dead birds to their state’s Department of Natural Resources. If handling a dead bird is necessary, experts recommend using disposable or washable gloves and double-bagging the carcass for disposal.