Bird Flu Human Infection
Bird Flu and Human Infection
Avian Influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a global concern, as it is highly contagious and is increasingly being passed from birds to humans.
The virus causing bird flu is the H5N1 strain which is an 11-gene avian virus, meaning it affects birds, including chickens, ducks, and turkeys. This virus has been identified in other mammals and different strains can affect humans. While the risk of bird-to-human transmission is low, there are cases of human infection and even death.
How is bird flu transmitted?
Bird flu is primarily transmitted from direct contact with infected birds, however, human-to-human transmission has been seen in a few rare cases. Epidemiologists suspect the virus does not spread easily between humans. Good hygiene practices, such as regularly washing hands, can reduce the risk of AIV transmission.
Symptoms
The symptoms of avian influenza infection in humans can vary from mild to severe and include; fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Severe cases can result in respiratory failure and death.
Prevention
It is important to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of AIV infection. Some tips to prevent bird flu infection include:
- Avoid contact with wild birds — If possible, avoid contact with wild birds, as they are known carriers of the virus.
- Practice good hygiene — Washing hands with soap and water before eating or preparing food and after being in contact with birds, bird droppings or poultry products is essential.
- Cook poultry products — Always cook poultry products, including eggs, thoroughly, to reduce the risk of contamination.
- Avoid poultry farms — Avoid visiting poultry farms or areas where birds may be present.
It is essential to be aware of the risks of bird flu and to take the appropriate precautions to prevent illness. Furthermore, anyone who develops any of the symptoms described should seek health care immediately as bird flu can often progress quickly to a serious and sometimes fatal illness.
