Bird Flu Virus Lung Disease

The bird flu, also known as the H5N1 virus, has killed millions of birds and a small number of humans. The bird flu is difficult for humans to contract. Most cases have been among people who have had contact with sick birds. There have been a few cases of human-to-human contraction.

Symptoms

• The main symptoms of the bird flu are similar to the everyday flu: cough, fever, sore throat, and muscle aches. A mild eye infection called conjunctivitis is an indicator of bird flu.

More Severe Symptoms

• Sometimes the bird flu causes more serious--even life-threatening--symptoms such as viral pneumonia or acute respiratory distress, which has been the main cause of the human deaths.

How Humans Get Bird Flu

• Contaminated wild birds shed the virus in their droppings, saliva and nasal secretions. Domestic birds come in contact with infected birds or contaminated feed, soil, or water. Humans come into contact with the domestic birds at markets where birds and eggs are sold, or touch contaminated surfaces such as feathers or droppings.

Vaccine

• In April 2007, the FDA approved a vaccine for bird flu. Although the vaccine has been approved, it is not available to the public. The vaccine is being stockpiled in case of an outbreak.

Tips for Prevention

• Avoid domesticated birds in areas such as small farms and open-air markets. Make sure you wash your hands after handling any birds or bird-related items such as raw eggs, feathers, droppings, etc.