Avian Flu

Avian bird flu is an infection that is caused by bird flu viruses. While wild birds can carry these viruses in their intestines and not fall ill, domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks and turkeys can be infected and killed by this Avian flu virus. Birds contract avian flu virus when they come in contact with contaminated excretions. Infected birds shed flu virus in their nasal secretions, feces and saliva.

Most cases of human infection of Avian bird flu is through contact with infected poultry or contaminated surfaces. The most common symptom of humans infected with Avian flu h5n1 strains is conjunctivitis of the eyes. Symptoms generally appear between two to four days following exposure. Symptoms of avian flu depend on the strain of virus that caused the infection. You can experience symptoms that characterize most flu infections such as fever, cough, sore throat and muscle ache. More severe symptoms of avian bird flu are pneumonia and severe respiratory disorders. In conditions of Avian flu epidemic, utmost care must be taken when handling and cooking poultry.

Avian influenza virus infection can be diagnosed using specimens of blood, sputum or from swabs of the nose and throat. Testing for Asian flu is done at a specialized laboratory. Drugs like Tamiflu may reduce the severity of human flu strains if taken within two days of the onset of symptoms. Standard precautions like washing hands frequently with plenty of soap and water helps to avoid the infection through contact. Avoid undercooked eggs or poultry.