The recent rise in bird flu cases, including the first human fatality reported in the United States, highlights the critical need for effective cleaning and disinfection practices. Avian influenza, or bird flu, is caused by highly contagious influenza A viruses that spread among wild birds and domestic poultry. While human infections remain rare, they can result in severe illness, emphasizing the importance of proactive prevention measures in high-risk environments like farms, food processing facilities, and healthcare settings.
Stay Informed: Take Clean Further with Betco
Subscribe to Betco emails to join thousands of other industry professionals and get the most helpful blog posts, the latest news, new product notifications, and invitations to our events conveniently in your inbox!
Yes, Sign Me Up!What Is Bird Flu and Why Is It Dangerous?
Bird flu viruses primarily infect wild birds but can spread to domestic poultry and occasionally to humans. Human infections, though uncommon, can lead to severe respiratory illness, fever, and complications such as pneumonia. The recent increase in cases serves as a reminder of the importance of cleaning and disinfection, particularly in environments with close contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces.
Preventing Bird Flu with Disinfectants and Proper Hygiene
Reducing the risk of avian influenza transmission requires the use of effective disinfectant products on surfaces that may harbor the virus. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains List M, a registry of products proven to kill avian influenza viruses based on laboratory testing data.*
Betco® offers several disinfectants with demonstrated efficacy when used as directed:
Tips for Cleaning and Disinfecting to Prevent Bird Flu
Follow these best practices to help prevent the spread of avian influenza:
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly using EPA-registered solutions, like Betco disinfectants listed above.
- Prioritize hand hygiene by washing hands thoroughly and frequently, especially in high-risk settings.
- Use protective equipment, such as gloves, when cleaning contaminated areas to minimize exposure.
Betco remains committed to providing effective cleaning and disinfection solutions that protect public health.
*This list is for primary registrations only. Because Betco uses supplemental registrations through primary registrants, our products must be searched using the EPA Registration Number (EPA Reg. No.) found on the product label, not the brand name. The first two parts of the EPA Reg. No. match the primary product, while the third set is Betco’s EPA ID, 4170. For example:
