What is the main concern about bird flu?
Bird flu is caused by strains of influenza virus that originally infected birds. Infected birds include chickens, ducks, and geese mainly. The H5N1 avian flu virus is the cause of concern since it has led to several deaths in people, mostly in Asia. Avian flu is frequently severe, there is little natural immunity in the human population.
Any information on recent outbreaks in India?
The outbreak of bird flu was reported in Andhra Pradesh and Nagpur. A large number of poultry birds died in the recent past. It was stated that the outbreak was due to the H5 N1 influenza virus. Poultry and eggs from infected birds should not be consumed. Infected eggs and poultry should be destroyed and properly buried and not disposed of indiscriminately.
How avian influenza virus spreads?
Water birds like wild ducks are believed to be the carriers of all avian influenza type A viruses. The viruses are carried inside the bird’s intestines and are distributed into the environment via the bird’s feces. Migratory birds spread the virus to other birds. Contact of human hands with infected bird’s feces and consuming food without washing hands is the most common way.
What are the common symptoms of avian influenza in human beings?
Fever, sore throat, cough, headache, and aching muscles are early and common symptoms. However, some serious and fatal infections including an eye infection, pneumonia viral pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress may require ventilatory support. Diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and seizures can occur.
When to visit your doctor?
If you have trouble breathing, have pain in your chest or your abdomen, get dizzy, feel confused, or have severe vomiting or loose stools should need prompt attention.
What are the preferred treatments?
Besides proper oral hydration and Paracetamol, oral oseltamivir is the preferred regimen. The standard treatment is 75 mg twice daily for 5 days. Alternative anti-viral drugs are available. Antiviral treatment should be administered as early as possible. Patients with persistent symptoms should be evaluated for bacterial infection.
Are there vaccines to prevent bird flu in humans?
They are not available in most parts of the world except the United States. The US national stockpile includes H5N1 avian influenza vaccine. Two doses one month apart are used in adults 18 to 65 years of age. The news of many birds getting infected by the avian influenza virus is causing concern. Spread from wild to domesticated birds happens frequently. Thankfully, spread to humans is not common. However, vigilance is necessary
How can I protect myself from bird flu?
Always wash your hands with soap and water, or use alcohol hand rubs. Stay away from sick animals and sick people infected with the virus. Stay away from markets that sell live birds. Avoid eating raw eggs.
How to detect Bird Flu Avian Influenza A virus in humans?
It cannot be diagnosed by clinical symptoms and examination alone, as many other illnesses have similar presentations. Collecting a swab from the nose or throat of the sick person is important. During the first few days, the testing is more accurate.
Can egg or chicken be consumed during the epidemic amongst birds?
They can be consumed if the birds are not infected. Live but sick birds should not be brought home. Well-cooked chicken or boiled eggs not infected can be consumed. However, infected birds and eggs are destroyed to prevent the spread of infection to other birds and later to humans. Infections in humans are more serious than other flu viruses.
