Avian influenza in humans is an infectious disease caused by a virus that can infect not only birds but also humans and other animals. H5N1 is the most common strain of avian influenza, and it can be fatal to birds while easily affecting humans. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), H5N1 was first detected in humans in 1997 and has killed nearly 60% of those infected.
1. Causes of Avian Influenza
While there are several types of avian influenza outbreaks, H5N1 is the first avian influenza virus to infect humans, causing what is commonly known as bird flu or avian influenza. The first human case was discovered in Hong Kong in 1997. The outbreak was primarily due to improper handling of infected poultry.
Causes of Avian Influenza
How Does Avian Influenza Spread to Humans? H5N1 primarily hosts in wild bird populations (mainly wild ducks) and poultry (such as ducks, turkeys, chickens, geese). The disease is transmitted through contact with the feces of infected birds or poultry or through secretions from their nose, mouth, or eyes. Wet markets and other places selling eggs and birds under crowded and unsanitary conditions are hotspots for disease transmission and can easily spread the virus to densely populated communities.
Undercooked meat or eggs from infected birds or poultry can also transmit avian influenza. To ensure safety, poultry meat should be fully cooked to an internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F), and eggs should be fully cooked with both yolk and white solidified.
Does Avian Influenza Spread from Person to Person? Currently, avian influenza does not spread from person to person. However, some experts fear that the H5N1 virus could pose a potential pandemic threat to humans.
2. Symptoms
Symptoms of avian influenza typically appear within two to seven days after infection, depending on the strain of the virus. In most cases, the symptoms of avian influenza resemble those of common flu, including:
- Cough
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Difficulty breathing
Some individuals may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In a few cases, mild eye infection (conjunctivitis) may be the only symptom.
When to See a Doctor? Seek medical attention immediately if you have a fever, cough, and body aches, and have recently traveled to a country or region experiencing an avian flu outbreak.
3. Diagnosis
3.1. Sample Testing Fluid samples from the patient’s nose or throat are taken to check for the presence of the avian influenza virus. These samples should be collected within the first few days after symptoms appear.
Diagnosis
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has approved a specialized test to identify avian influenza, called the influenza A/H5 (Asian lineage) virus real-time RT-PCR primer and probe set. Preliminary results from this test can be available within four hours.
3.2. Imaging Diagnosis X-rays can be useful in evaluating the condition of the lungs, helping to confirm the diagnosis and choose appropriate treatment methods for the patient’s current symptoms.
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4. Treatment
Many flu viruses have developed resistance to antiviral drugs such as amantadine and rimantadine (Flumadine). Health officials recommend using oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) if oseltamivir is ineffective. These medications should be administered within two days of the onset of symptoms.
Close contacts of the infected person, including family members, may also be prescribed antiviral medication as a preventive measure, even if they are not ill.
Treatment
Patients are typically isolated in a hospital room, and mechanical ventilation may be provided if the infection is severe.
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