What is bird flu?
Bird flu (also called Avian Influenza A or avian influenza) is a virus that spreads from poultry to birds. In rare cases, certain strains of the virus can mutate into a human virus and spread to humans. Most people infected with bird flu have had close contact with infected birds or bird droppings. It is mainly an issue in Asia, Africa, the Pacific, the Middle East and parts of Europe.
Bird flu symptoms
Symptoms usually appear 2 to 7 days after exposure. They are similar to what you get with seasonal flu. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- A cough
- Sore muscles
- Headache
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
More serious symptoms may include:
- Severe breathing problems (shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, pneumonia, severe respiratory distress, and respiratory distress)
- Stomachache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
In some cases, bird flu can cause mental confusion and convulsions. At worst, it can lead to death.
As with any flu virus, some people are at higher risk of serious illness. Including:
- Pregnant women
- People with weakened immune systems
- Elderly people 65 years and older
What causes bird flu?
The disease is mainly caused by direct contact with infected poultry. This can be through touching or plucking. It is also caused by contact with the saliva or feces of infected birds. This includes swimming in water contaminated with bird droppings. It can also be spread if you touch a surface where an infected bird has been.
The virus is spread when infected hands touch your nose, eyes, or mouth. The virus can also be inhaled through small moisture droplets or dust particles. It can only be transmitted from person to person if it mutates into a human influenza virus. This is rare.
It is also possible to get the virus from undercooked meat or eggs of infected poultry. Meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165° F. Eggs should be cooked until the whites and yolks harden.
Your risk of getting avian flu is higher if:
- You work with poultry.
- You travel to areas where the virus is present.
- You touch an infected bird.
- You walk into a building with infected birds or the droppings of infected birds.
- You eat raw or undercooked meat or eggs from infected birds.
How is bird flu diagnosed?
Bird flu is usually diagnosed during a visit to the doctor. Your doctor will examine you and ask questions about your symptoms. They will ask you about recent events that may have brought you into contact with an infected bird or human. Laboratory tests are needed to confirm the virus. Your doctor will take a sample of mucus from your nose or throat with a long cotton swab. That swab will be sent to a lab for testing.
Can bird flu be prevented or avoided?
The best way to avoid the virus is to avoid direct contact with birds in high-risk areas. This includes traveling to the worst-affected countries and visiting live animal markets. Avoiding contact with people known to have the virus is also a good way to avoid getting sick. As with all viruses, frequent hand washing is the best way to control your exposure. If you can’t wash your hands, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands. If possible, use a tissue to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
If you know you have the disease, do not expose others at work, school, and the community. Try to separate yourself from the rest of your family at home. People who work with live poultry should follow their work safety guidelines.
Because bird flu is so rare, there is no vaccine available to the general public. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have developed a vaccine that they are stockpiling in case the disease spreads in the United States.
Treatment of bird flu
Certain antiviral prescription medications can lessen or shorten the symptoms of the virus. However, they will not prevent or remove the virus. Doctors treat symptoms by suggesting over-the-counter medications, extra fluids, and rest. For more severe symptoms, you may need to stay in the hospital. Hospitalization may involve intravenous fluids (which are given through a fine needle inserted into your vein) and respiratory treatment.
Living with bird flu
Living with avian flu can mean living with mild symptoms for a week or two, and symptoms will subside over time. Rest and fluids will help.