How do you avoid bird flu?

To avoid bird flu, follow these preventive measures:

1. Avoid Contact with Infected Birds:

- Stay away from wild birds, especially waterfowl and poultry that appear sick or dead.

- Avoid touching their feathers, saliva, or droppings.

2. Practice Proper Hygiene:

- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with birds or their environment.

- Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

- Wear disposable gloves when handling raw poultry or game meat.

3. Cook Poultry Thoroughly:

- Cook poultry and game meat to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.

4. Avoid Cross-Contamination:

- Keep raw poultry separate from other foods, including cooked foods and ready-to-eat items.

- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for handling raw and cooked poultry.

- Thoroughly clean and disinfect surfaces that have come into contact with raw poultry.

5. Protect Your Pets:

- Keep your pets away from wild birds and poultry.

- Prevent them from consuming raw or undercooked poultry or game meat.

6. Limit Travel to Affected Areas:

- If you're traveling to areas where bird flu is known to be present, take extra precautions to avoid contact with poultry and wild birds.

7. Stay Informed:

- Stay updated with the latest information and recommendations from your local health authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO).

8. Seek Medical Care:

- If you experience any symptoms that could be related to bird flu (e.g., fever, cough, muscle aches, vomiting), seek medical attention immediately.

Remember, bird flu is primarily a disease that affects birds. Human cases are relatively rare and require close contact with infected birds or their environments. By practicing preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting the virus.