Disposal of dead birds
Bird flu viruses rarely spread from animals to people, but it can happen through close contact with infected animals (alive or dead) or, less commonly, through contact with places or things that infected birds have contaminated.
While the risk of H5 bird flu to people remains low, it’s important to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and keep pets and children away.
Steps to dispose of a dead bird or animal
If you need to handle or dispose of a dead bird or animal, follow these steps to reduce the risk of infection.
Protect yourself
Keep the contact brief and stay outside.
Don’t bring dead birds indoors.
Wear:
- waterproof disposable gloves, such as kitchen gloves
- a well-fitted P2/N95 respirator, or a surgical mask if a respirator is not available
- eye protection, such as safety goggles (sunglasses can be used if goggles are not available)
- long-sleeved clothing
- enclosed footwear.
If gloves are not available, use a plastic bag over each hand.
Do not touch your face until you have removed your personal protective equipment (PPE) and washed your hands.
Dispose of a dead bird or animal
In the bin:
- Put a bag over your gloved hand, or use a shovel.
- Place the animal in a leak-proof bag.
- Tie the bag securely.
- Put the bag inside a second bag.
- Tie the second bag securely.
- Place the double-bagged animal in an outdoor general waste bin (red lid). Do not put it in a recycling or garden waste bin.
Bury it:
- Dig a hole at least 60 cm deep.
- Choose a location away from your house, pets, gardens and water sources.
- Use a shovel or other tool to lift the animal and any soil touching it.
- Place the animal in the hole.
- Bury it immediately.
- Do not bury the animal in a plastic bag.
Clean up
Remove your PPE while still outdoors.
When removing PPE:
- only touch the cleanest part of each item
- remove gloves first
- remove eye protection and your mask last
- place disposable items in a sealed bag and put them in a general waste bin.
Wash your hands thoroughly:
- after removing each item of PPE
- after handling the animal
- after cleaning equipment or surfaces.
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds if they are visibly dirty.
If soap and water are not available and your hands look clean, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
Clean and disinfect any equipment or surfaces you used, including:
- eye protection
- shoes
- shovels and other tools.
First remove any visible dirt with water and soap or detergent. Then disinfect using a product that is effective against viruses. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Wash any clothing worn during disposal using regular laundry detergent on a hot wash cycle.