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Bird flu - symptoms and spread

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Written By: Poorva Chavan | Published : November 30, 2014 2:45 PM IST

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With the recent Bird flu (H5N1) outbreak in Kerala, a large number of ducks have been culled and preventive measures have been taken to control the outbreak and limit the infection to the birds only. H5N1 infects water fowl and incidence of this virus in other common poultry is not seen.You may like to know why the state of Kerala is on a high alert for spread of H5N1 avian influenza.

To take proper preventive measures, one should be aware of the symptoms of the infection.

Bird Flu symptoms

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They can vary from person to person but the infection begins with normal flu like signs such as cough, fever, head ache, runny nose, breathing difficulties, diarrhea and muscle ache. Sneezing, sore throat, loss of appetite and insomnia are other symptoms that are commonly observed.

With the progression of the disease, the infected person may suffer from complications like pneumonia. Respiratory failure where the lungs cannot provide enough oxygen to the rest of the body is also one of the complications. Multiple organ failure is another fatal complication that is seen.

How are humans infected?

  • The virus can be transferred to humans from the water fowl when the infected fowls are handled.
  • Inhaling the aerosolized material or dried dust from the droppings or beddings of infected birds causes bird flu.
  • Direct contact with droppings of infected birds is also a way of transmission. Also swimming in water, which has been contaminated with bird droppings, transfers the infection to humans.
  • Coming in contact with nasal secretions of infected birds.
  • Another source of infection is live markets where poultry is sold or kept in crowded and unsanitary conditions.

The incidence of human to human transmission of the virus is less as compared to other human flu viruses, but precautions should be taken to prevent the infection.

General precautions that one should take to prevent transmission of the virus include-

  • Washing hands regularly especially after visiting the toilet and before handling food.
  • Covering the mouth with a tissue while sneezing or coughing.
  • Using tissue papers over traditional cloth handkerchiefs to wipe a runny nose and disposing the tissues immediately.
  • Avoiding public areas when you are sick.
  • Avoiding contact with dead birds.
  • Taking proper care of your pet if it has a tendency to catch wild birds. If you have a pet bird, you should make sure that it doesn t come in contact with other wild birds.
  • If you are travelling to countries that are affected with bird flu, avoid visiting live animal markets or poultry farms. Also do not bring back live birds or their feathers from the infected country.
  • While cooking meat and eggs one must ensure that is it completely cooked. Bird flu is not transferred by eating fully cooked poultry or eggs. Although, eating partially cooked or runny eggs should be completely avoided.
  • Proper kitchen hygiene should be maintained and vegetables and meat should be stored together.

Image source: Getty Images

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Poorva Chavan

Poorva Chavan

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