How do I handle a sick or dead animal that might have West Nile Virus?

Under normal conditions, humans are unlikely to be infected with West Nile Virus by handling a sick or dead animal. However, there are a number of other infections that could potentially result from handling an animal. To protect yourself from exposure to any illness, you should wear gloves or put a plastic bag over your hand before touching the animal and you should wash your hands with soap and water immediately afterward. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has detailed recommendations for ways that outdoor workers or laboratory, field, and clinical workers can protect themselves from infection.