Pharmacie Kennedy Mulhouse

A sick or dead wild bird: what to do without picking it up?

Avoid handling and report unusual deaths to the relevant local service. Tell a doctor about exposure if symptoms develop.

Editorial illustration of a health discussion; it does not depict the pharmacy’s actual premises.
Editorial illustration — Kennedy Pharmacy Mulhouse

General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.

Do not touch or pick up a sick or dead wild bird. Santé publique France advises against handling to limit exposure to avian viruses.

Transmission can involve infected birds, droppings or a contaminated environment. Do not handle a dead animal to identify it.

For unusual wild-bird deaths, contact the departmental Office français de la biodiversité service or departmental hunting federation.

Do not improvise collection: protective equipment described for exposed people does not make picking up animals risk-free.

After a risk exposure, Santé publique France recommends monitoring your health for ten days after the last contact.

If symptoms develop, seek medical advice immediately and mention the exposure. Limit close contacts and wear a mask around other people.

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