Overview
Avian flue, or bird flu, (H5N1 virus) is caused by a virus that specifically targets birds, but can infect humans with deadly consequence. Outbreaks have occurred in Asia, Africa, and Europe in the past few years, according to the Mayo Clinic. The virus causes a mild and deadly form of illness in birds. The mild form usually goes undetected (low egg production, ruffled feathers), while the deadly form spreads rapidly, infects many organs and kills all infected poultry. Humans can become infected with the virus by coming in contact with the feces of infected birds.
Symptoms
Symptoms of avian bird flu are very similar to the common influenza. They include coughing, fever, sore throat and muscle aches. There have also been reports of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and conjunctivitis (eye infection). The danger is when people dismiss it as the normal flu and do not seek medical attention. This enables the virus to spread, causing more damage. Therefore, it is vital that people who travel to endemic areas be checked by a medical professional if symptoms are present.
Causes
The virus occurs naturally in water fowl and is spread through feces and body secretions like tears, saliva and mucus. Domestic poultry is usually at highest risk, especially in open markets where birds and eggs are sold in unsanitary conditions. This allows the virus to spread rapidly within the community where people live in confined conditions.
Life-Threatening Conditions
There are several life-threatening conditions that result from the avian flu. Pneumonia is inflammation of the lung that can result in difficulty breathing. Collapsed lung is the collection of air in the space around the lung that squeezes the lung, making it difficult to breathe. Respiratory failure prevents the lungs from removing carbon dioxide, which pollutes the blood. Other complications of the avian flu virus involve kidney and heart disease.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Lab tests are usually performed on fluids from the nose and throat because these are the main areas of infection. In the past, lab tests usually took hours or days to produce results but today, these test take less than an hour. X-rays are also used to check the condition of the lungs. Treatment usually involves antiviral drugs like osteltamivir and zanamivir. It is very important to take these drugs within two days of the onset of symptoms.
Prevention
According to the Food and Drug Administration, one cannot get avian flu by eating properly handled and well-cooked poultry and eggs. Prevention of the disease starts with washing hands and utensils with soap and warm water before and after handling raw poultry. Poultry should be cooked to a minimum temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit while eggs should be cooked until whites and yolks are firm.
