Bird Flu: Understanding the Threat and Preventing its Spread What is Bird Flu? Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a contagious viral infection that can infect both domesticated birds like chickens, turkeys, ducks and geese as well as wild birds. The virus occurs naturally among wild aquatic birds worldwide and can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species. Bird Flu Strains There are various strains of bird flu virus but the one of major concern is called highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) type A viruses. These strains are highly contagious among bird populations and can cause severe disease that spreads rapidly resulting in high mortality rates sometimes affecting as much as 90-100% of infected flocks. The H5N1 virus is one such strain that has caused large scale epidemics and pandemics among poultry since the late 1990s. Transmission to Humans While birds are the usual carriers and spreaders of bird flu, occasionally humans can also catch the virus, generally after direct unprotected contact with infected live or dead birds. This is referred to as avian influenza A virus infections in humans Bird Flu when it occurs. Sustained human-to-human transmission of these viruses has been very limited and inefficient. Symptoms in Humans The symptoms of bird flu infection in humans are similar to those of regular seasonal influenza which may include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, eye infections, and in severe cases pneumonia and acute respiratory distress. Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea are also possible. Serious complications can lead to severe respiratory diseases like viral pneumonia and even death. The severity of symptoms may vary depending on immune condition and age of the infected person. Elderly people and very young children are at highest risk. Containing the Spread Several strategies are employed to contain any potential spread of HPAI viruses. Infected birds are culled immediately to stop the virus. Rigorous monitoring and surveillance programs are used to test poultry and wild birds for early detection. Strict biosecurity measures are enforced in commercial poultry farms and live bird markets to prevent the virus from entering. Restricting movements of poultry, eggs and manure in infected areas is done. Public education about handling and consuming birds safely helps stop transmission to humans. Antiviral medications and vaccines are studied for prevention and control. International cooperation and trade restrictions curb global spread of the disease. Current Situation While H5N1 bird flu first emerged in 1997, continued circulation and evolution of the virus led to additional outbreaks in poultry in Asia, Africa and Europe since 2003 until present. Millions of birds were culled to control epidemics. As of now, H5N1 HPAI viruses remain entrenched in parts of Asia, Africa, Europe and Middle East, moving between poultry and wild birds. Regular human cases and sporadic clusters continue to be reported worldwide, with fatality rate around 60% according to WHO. The threat of a bird flu pandemic looms as more subtypes and strains emerge. Constant vigilance and quick actions are key to preventing future spread. Protecting Yourself Some basic precautions everyone should take include avoiding contact with dead or sick birds and properly handling and cooking meat and eggs. Do not touch surfaces or use items that were in contact with infected birds without disinfection. Maintain good personal hygiene after engaging in high-risk activities like visiting live bird markets or poultry farms. Report unusual deaths among wild or domestic birds to healthcare and animal health authorities immediately. Get medical help promptly if flu-like symptoms develop after exposure to infected birds. Staying alert and following recommended guidelines will help lower chances of getting or spreading bird flu. while bird flu viruses occur naturally in birds, certain strains like H5N1 HPAI can cause severe disease in poultry and occasionally infect humans. Timely identification, culling and tracing contacts has helped control outbreaks. But as the viruses continue to circulate, mutate and potentially adapt to humans, global cooperation remains crucial for ongoing surveillance, early detection, proper response and prevention strategies to avert future pandemics. Heightened biosecurity, monitoring and public education are needed to reduce threat at the animal-human interface. With effort and vigilance, we hope to better understand and manage this ongoing zoonotic health risk. Get this Report in Japanese Language 鳥インフルエンザ Get this Reports in Korean Language 조류 독감 About Author: Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights. (LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alice-mutum-3b247b137 )
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