How does the bird flu get in your body?

Avian influenza, commonly called bird flu, is a respiratory illness caused by influenza A viruses that primarily affect birds. In some cases, it can also infect humans and other animals.

There are several ways the bird flu can enter the human body:

1. Direct Contact with Infected Birds or Their Secretions: One of the most common ways people get infected is through direct contact with infected birds or their bodily fluids, such as saliva, mucus, or feces. This can occur when people handle live or dead infected birds, clean their cages, or come into contact with surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus.

2. Airborne Transmission: In certain circumstances, the bird flu virus can spread through the air when infected birds cough, sneeze, or vocalize, releasing tiny respiratory droplets containing the virus. If a person inhales these droplets, they may become infected, especially if they are in close proximity to infected birds.

3. Contact with Contaminated Surfaces or Objects: The virus can survive on surfaces and objects for several hours or even days. Touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching the face, particularly the eyes, nose, or mouth, can lead to infection.

4. Fomite Transmission: Fomites are inanimate objects or surfaces that can carry and transmit infectious agents. If someone touches a surface or object contaminated with the bird flu virus and then touches their face or mucous membranes, they can become infected.

It's important to note that the risk of infection with the bird flu for humans is generally considered low in most cases. Proper hygiene measures, such as washing hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding contact with infected birds, and wearing appropriate protective gear when working with poultry, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.