Bird Flu | Avian Influenza

Bird flu

Bird flu is also known as avian influenza or avian flu.
Avian influenza is a contagious disease affecting birds which is caused by type A strains of the influenza virus.
There are three types of influenza viruses - A, B, and C.
Influenza A and B viruses are of concern for human health because of the risks of pandemics and seasonal epidemics.
Influenza C only causes mild problems in humans.
Only influenza A viruses can cause pandemics.
Avian influenza affects many bird species, whether wild or domestic poultry and occurs any part of the world.
It is believed that all birds are susceptible to infection with avian influenza viruses, yet many wild bird species carry these viruses with no visible signs of danger.
Eating canned poultry products such as chicken essence is safe because the products undergo a heat process that effectively destroys any viruses.

The H5N1 virus strain is one of 16 varieties of bird flu.
The H5N1 virus is trasmitted through a bird's saliva, nasal secretions and faeces.
H5N1 - The H subtypes govern the ability of the virus to bind to and enter cells, where multiplication of the virus then occurs. The N subtypes govern the release of newly formed virus from the cells.
Influenza A viruses have 16 H subtypes and 9 N subtypes.
The H5N1 virus has spread from Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, China, Turkey, India, Canada, Russia and Europe.
Flu viruses often mutate, changing their characteristics rapidly.
It usually takes at least four months to develop new vaccines against the flu viruses.

Symptoms of bird flu in humans are fever, breathing difficulties, chest pains, headaches, runny nose, fatigue, muscle aches, sore throat and conjunctivitis (eye infections).

Do not go to work or school when feeling unwell.
See a doctor when you are not feeling well.
Wear a surgicial mask when you are unwell.
Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap (rub for 15 seconds before rinsing with water), especially before touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Wash your hands after being to the toilet.
Do not spit.
When sharing food during mealtimes, use a serving untensil for each dish.

Avoid visiting poultry markets and farms.
Avoid coming into contact with birds like pigeons, chickens, ducks, swan and wild birds.
Do not consume or handle raw or uncooked poultry and eggs.
Do not stay close to anyone who appears unwell.

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