Direct contact between ill and uninfected birds is the primary way that avian influenza spreads. Furthermore, it can spread when birds come into touch with tools or resources (such as water and food) that were contaminated previously with excretions or secretions from ill birds' mouths or noses.

Bird flu, or avian flu, is an infectious type of influenza that spreads among birds. In rare cases, it can affect humans. Symptoms begin within two to eight days and can seem like the common flu. For preventing such a case ensure your safety by doing this:

Preventions:

When handling food, especially raw chicken, wash your hands often with warm water and soap. Separate utensils should be used for raw and cooked meat. Ensure that the meat is cooked to a sizzling temperature. Stay away from alive birds and poultry to be extra safe. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if you are unable to wash your hands. Keep your hands away from your mouth, nose, and eyes.

Symptoms of Avian Influenza in humans

• Fever
• Shivering
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Breathlessness
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Diarrhea

If you know you have the disease, do not expose others at work, school, and in the community. Try to separate yourself from the rest of your family at home. Because Avian flu is rare, a vaccine to prevent it is not available to the public. Living with avian flu may include enduring one or two weeks of initially minor symptoms that eventually go better. Intake of fluids and sufficient rest are beneficial during this period.

According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Bird flu virus infection is usually diagnosed by collecting a swab from the upper respiratory tract (nose or throat) of the sick person. Testing is more accurate when the swab is collected during the first few days of illness.”

According to the World Health Organisation “On 21 July 2021, the National International Health Regulations focal point of India notified World Health Organisation of one human case of avian Influenza A(H5N1) from Haryana state, northern India. This is the first reported case of human infection of influenza A(H5N1) virus in India.”

The germs and viruses, including bird flu viruses, are destroyed by treating birds and eggs properly and boiling them to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Presently, there is no cure for avian influenza. The species of birds that are most prone to contracting avian influenza include swans, ducks, and geese.

(Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.)