Bird Flu

Avian Influenza

Aguila, Eva A.
Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)
A contagious disease of livestock (chicken, ducks, birds),
which may also cause severe infection in humans
Cause
Influenza virus A (H5N1)

Mode of Transmission
Transmitted to humans through inhalation or contamination with infected discharges or
feces of sick chicken.
Signs and Symptoms
● Fever
● Body weakness or muscle pain
● Cough
● Sore throat
● Sore eyes and/or diarrhea in some persons
● Difficulty of breathing in a week’s time from onset in severe tases
Treatment
Same as for other influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs, such
as oseltamivir, stop the progress of the illness if given
within the first 2 days from the onset of fever.
Prevention
● Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling live and dressed
chicken.
● Cook chicken thoroughly
● Do not catch, get near to, or keep in captivity wild birds.
● Do not handle sick or dead birds with bare hands.
● Use gloves or plastic material for the hands, facial masks, and googles.
● Report to the nearest agricultural/ veterinary office any unusual death or illness of chicken and
other birds.
● Report to the nearest local health centers any case of respiratory illness with history of
exposure to sick chickens and other birds.