Avian Influenza

Overview

Avian influenza refers to the disease caused by infection with avian influenza Type A viruses, commonly called "bird flu". These viruses occur naturally among wild aquatic birds and can infect domestic poultry, birds, and animals. Avian flu viruses do not normally infect humans, although it is possible.

Symptoms & diagnosis

While avian influenza primarily affects birds, certain strains can infect humans, typically after close contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms of avian influenza in humans can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Fever (often high and sudden onset)
• Cough and sore throat
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle aches and fatigue
• Eye infections (conjunctivitis)
• Diarrhea or abdominal pain in some cases

Severe cases can progress to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multi-organ failure, and even death.

Treatment

The best treatment is prevention. However, if you believe you were possibly infected it is best to reach out to your healthcare provider immediately.

Prevention

• Avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, and other animals and observe them only from a distance
• If you must have direct/close contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other animals, wear recommended personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Do not touch surfaces or materials (such as animal litter or bedding material) contaminated with saliva, mucous, or animal feces from wild or domestic birds or other animals with confirmed or suspected avian bird influenza A virus infection

Reporting

Laboratory-confirmed infection with avian influenza in humans is reportable