Concerns Rise Over Bird Flu Transmission Due to Poultry Disposal Methods

Health experts are increasingly concerned about the potential risks associated with the disposal of poultry infected with bird flu, particularly after recent reports linked the process to human infections. According to data and interviews with officials, the methods used to kill and dispose of infected birds may inadvertently contribute to the spread of the virus.

In a notable case, five workers at a Colorado egg farm contracted bird flu, marking the largest cluster of human cases in the U.S. The workers’ exposure occurred during the asphyxiation of chickens using carbon dioxide in extreme heat, which made it challenging to maintain protective gear. This incident underscores the need for stringent protective measures during such depopulation activities, as highlighted by CDC’s Principal Deputy Director, Nirav Shah.

Bird flu has been reported across nearly every U.S. state over the past 2.5 years, with nine human cases among poultry and dairy workers since March. While the risk to the general public remains low, further spread among livestock could increase the likelihood of human infections.

Approximately 95 million poultry have been culled since February 2022. The disposal methods include composting, burying, and, less commonly, transporting carcasses to landfills. Although most culled birds are composted on-site to prevent virus spread, landfills have been used in rare cases. A recent instance involved Michigan’s Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch disposing of nearly two million chickens in landfills, raising concerns among local farmers after a nearby dairy farm tested positive for bird flu.

Officials emphasize the importance of proper disposal methods to minimize risks. The USDA and other agencies are working with farmers to ensure safe practices, but experts like Minnesota’s state veterinarian Brian Hoefs caution against landfill disposal due to potential risks of virus transmission to scavengers.