It appears that deer carry the virus and some state wildlife departments have issued precautions to take when harvesting/butchering deer.
https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsan...lobal-pandemic
From an msn article:
The Oklahoma Wildlife Department said there is no known risk of COVID-19 exposure associated with cleaning deer or eating cooked venison. However, since deer hunting is prevalent in the state, the department has tips for handling the animal.
To reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection when handling harvested deer, people should follow the same guidelines recommended to reduce human-to-human transmission, such as hand washing, gloves and masks. Personal vaccination can also greatly reduce the risk of catching the virus, the department said.
The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife has similar advice for hunters in that state. Hunters should always "avoid handling or consuming wild animals that appear sick or those found dead," "wear gloves and a face shield when handling" game, and minimize contact with the brain or spinal tissue.
"Out of an abundance of caution for COVID-19, additional preventative measures include avoiding the head, lungs and digestive tract," the division said.
Other best practices include processing game outdoors or in a well-ventilated location, handling knives carefully to prevent accidental cuts and thoroughly washing hands and sanitizing all tools. Game meat should be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill pathogens, the division said.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/a-...-19/ar-AAQJiy3