Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
Most Wanted Virus-Alam
Mode of Infection
Most cases of avian influenza, also known as bird flu or H5N1, are caused by making contact with sick or dead poultry. Eating undercooked poultry or coming in contact with its droppings could increase chance of getting bird flu. The virus is contained in bird saliva and bird droppings, so when the dropping are dry, they can be ground into dust and inhaled. It cannot spread between people, which makes it rare.
Symptoms
Symptoms of bird flu include: Coughing, fever, soar throat, runny nose, muscle aches, respiratory difficulties, etc. In more severe cases, the symptoms are deadly. In 2005, two children died from the virus because it infected their brain and digestive tract. Symptoms could worsen if the illness isn't treated immediately.
Location
Bird flu first appeared in Southern China in 1996. There were two outbreaks of this illness, one in 1997 and another in 1999. They both occurred in Hong Kong and didn't start a pandemic. Bird flu isn't a threat currently, but there are still few cases each year.
Likely Victims
Bird flu is more common in places like Asia, Africa, and Europe. Anyone who comes in contact with an infected bird is a likely victim, but it is more severe to children and young adults.
Treatment/Prevention
Antiviral medications, could help reduce the symptoms. Flu drugs like Tamiflu and Relenza work against bird flu . Bird flu is rare, but good hygiene could keep you protected. If you are traveling outside of the U.S., then avoid poultry farms and eating undercooked poultry. See a doctor if you get sick after traveling.
Sources
http://www.csa.com/discoveryguides/avian/review2.php
http://www.healthline.com/health/avian-influenza#Overview1
http://www.sdbirdflu.org/treatment/http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/avian-flu-summary.htm
http://www.flu.gov/pandemic/history/
http://www.who.int/influenza/human_animal_interface/H5N1_cumulative_table_archives/en/