Bird flu, also commonly known as avian influenza flu is caused by the H5N1 virus that usually affects only birds. In the past this virus used to affect only birds. But in 2003, the first strain of bird flu in human was spotted in China.
Though the transfer of the virus from one person to another person is rare, it is possible. As a matter of fact the transfer of this flu virus from birds to humans is not very common.
The risk of humans contracting bird flu becomes higher in the following cases:
- You work with poultry like chicken, ducks and other birds.
- You come in contact with feces, saliva, blood or unwashed eggs of infected birds.
- Bathing in water that gets contaminated with the droppings of infected birds.
- Cleaning or plucking infected birds
- Extreme personal contact with person suffering from the virus.
- Eating raw, uncooked meat or consuming blood of infected birds.
Symptoms of bird flu in humans:
The symptoms of bird flu in humans is similar to any other flu and are listed below
- Cough
- Fever (above 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Diarrhea
- Sore Throat
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Nasal secretions
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
The infection can progress very fast and therefore needs immediate treatment, often including hospitalization for the need to monitor the patient.
Treatment of Bird flu in humans:
The treatment is usually based on the severity and symptoms of each patient. The government has approved of flu based drugs such as Tamiflu and Relenza to fight the flu in humans.
Prevention:
Doctors recommend taking the influenza (flu) shot to reduce the risks of contracting the virus.
Written by: Rasha Ashraf
