Bird flu (avian influenza)

What is Bird Flu?
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) is a viral infection that primarily affects birds. The strain most dangerous to humans is H5N1.

The Risk: While it rarely infects humans, when it does, it is often deadly (mortality rate >50%). However, it does not currently spread easily from person to person.

Symptoms

Symptoms begin 2 to 5 days after infection. They resemble severe seasonal flu, but often progress faster:

• High fever and cough.
• Sore throat and muscle aches.
• Conjunctivitis: A mild eye infection is sometimes the only early sign.
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Late Stage: Severe respiratory distress (pneumonia).

✅ FOOD SAFETY: IS CHICKEN SAFE?
Yes. You cannot get bird flu from eating properly cooked poultry or eggs.

Heat kills the virus. Ensure meat is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and eggs are cooked until the yolk is firm.

Causes & Transmission

Bird flu occurs naturally in wild waterfowl (ducks/geese) and spreads to domestic poultry (chickens/turkeys). Humans usually get infected via:

• Direct Contact: Touching infected birds (alive or dead).
• Contaminated Surfaces: Contact with feces, saliva, or mucus from infected birds.
• Open-Air Markets: "Wet markets" where birds are sold in crowded conditions are common hotspots for transmission.

Complications

Because humans have no natural immunity to this strain, complications develop rapidly:

• Severe Pneumonia.
• Collapsed lung.
• Respiratory failure (requiring a ventilator).
• Kidney dysfunction and heart problems.

Diagnosis

If you have flu symptoms and have recently handled birds or traveled to an area with an outbreak, tell your doctor immediately.

• Swab Test: Samples from the nose or throat are tested for the specific virus strain.
• Chest X-Ray: To assess the condition of the lungs (pneumonia).

Treatment

Treatment is most effective if started within 48 hours of symptoms appearing.

1. Antiviral Medications

Drugs like Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and Zanamivir (Relenza) can reduce the severity of the disease and improve survival rates.

2. Supportive Care

Most patients require hospitalization for oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and monitoring for organ failure.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.