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Be Informed
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Avian Flu General Information Avian influenza (bird flu) is an infection caused by influenza A virus. It can affect all types of birds, and sometimes infect animals and humans. Influenza A H5N1 is the particular subtype of influenza virus that is causing the current outbreak of bird flu in Southeast Asian countries. Avian influenza virus infections are widespread in wild birds, especially ducks. They spread the virus by carrying it in their intestinal tract and shedding it in their feces. To date, most human cases have been linked to direct contact with infected poultry or surfaces that are contaminated with feces from infected birds. There is only limited evidence to suggest transmission from human to human. There is no evidence that avian influenza virus can be transmitted by mosquitoes. The symptoms of bird flu in humans are similar to that of other forms of influenza, including fever, sore throat, cough, headache and muscle aches. However, complications like eye infection, pneumonia, and severe respiratory diseases do occur. The current risk to Americans from the H5N1 bird flu outbreak in Asia is low. The strains of H5N1 virus found in Asia have not been found in the United States . There have been no human cases of H5N1 flu in the United States . It is possible that travelers returning from affected countries in Asia could be infected. Medical and public health personnel have been watching closely to find any such cases. Prevention A vaccine is not yet available for avian influenza. The current vaccine for human influenza does not prevent avian influenza infection in people. However, immunization with the current flu vaccine would be important for those in close contact with infected poultry because it could reduce the likelihood that a worker would be infected with the human and avian forms of influenza at the same time. This would help prevent the emergence of a mixed human/avian influenza virus. Good hygiene by hand washing with soap and water and cleaning of surfaces will remove the virus. All foods from poultry, including eggs, should be fully cooked before serving. Travelers to countries in Asia with known outbreaks of bird flu are advised to avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in live food markets, and surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals. For more information on avian influenza, please visit the CDC and the WHO websites: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/index.htm for the most up to date information on the countries affected and other related information. Page last updated: June 7, 2006 |
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Information courtesy of www.ready.gov |
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