Examples of infections associated with finding dead birds:
(1) West Nile virus
(2) Avian influenza
If a dead bird is found:
(1) Determine if there is an apparent cause (cold weather, predator, etc.).
(2) If no apparent cause is seen, notify the local health department.
(3) The local health department may (a) send someone out to collect the carcass, (b) instruct you to collect the carcass, or (c) tell you to dispose of the carcass yourself.
Personal protective equipment that should be worn:
(1) Wear impermeable gloves.
(2) Wear a mask if available.
Method of bird pickup:
(1) Find a small plastic bag that is intact, without holes.
(2) Invert the bag over the hand and forearm.
(3) Grasp the bird firmly with the bag-covered hand.
(4) With the other hand revert the bag over the bird.
(5) Seal the bag securely.
(6) Place the sealed bag into a second plastic bag (double bag) and seal securely.
Keep children, cats and other pets away from the carcass.
Spray the area (especially any nesting areas) with a dilute sodium hypochlorite (Chlorox) solution. If the bird is not being analyzed by public health officials, then spray the bird prior to picking it up.
Disposal - one of the following:
(1) Give to a public health official if directed to do so.
(2) Place the plastic bag into a garbage bag to be disposed with routine trash.
Cleanup:
(1) Rinse gloves with a dilute sodium hypochlorite solution then dispose in trash.
(2) Wash hands carefully with soap and water.
