Wild Harvest Covid-19 Recommendations
— ADF&G Press Release

Doug Vincent-Lang, Commissioner
P.O. Box 115526
Juneau, Alaska 99811-5526

Press Release: January 26, 2021

CONTACT: Rick Green, ADF&G 267-2228

Wild Harvest Covid-19 Recommendations

(Anchorage, AK) — At this time there is no evidence that either fish or animals play a significant role in spreading SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) to people (COVID-19 and Animals | CDC). The CDC guidance also addresses the current science about the risks associated with foods from COIVD-19 (Food And Coronavirus Disease | CDC). Current studies show that the virus does not infect fish and infected animals have a very low risk to spread the virus to humans. However, any fish or animal carcass could be secondarily contaminated with the virus by a person handling the product. As such, be careful during the handling of your harvested wild fish and game, and as always, follow routine sanitary and food safety recommendations to protect yourself and others from Covid-19 and any food borne pathogens.

General Recommendations for hunters:

The risk of acquiring SARS-CoV-2 continues to be highest due to person-to-person contact. Plan hunting outings according to recommended social distancing guidelines.

  • Do not harvest or handle any wildlife that is obviously sick or found dead.
  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke while cleaning game.
  • Wear rubber gloves while cleaning game.
  • Wash hands with soap and water immediately after handling game. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol wipes.
  • Wash all tools and work surfaces with soap and water. Then, disinfect them.
  • Avoid cross-contamination. Keep uncooked game in a separate container, away from cooked or ready-to-eat foods.
  • Cook game meat thoroughly; meat should reach an internal temperature of 165 °F to kill disease organisms and parasites.