Avian Flu: Vaccine Studies

Disclaimer: Not medical or professional advice. Always seek the advice of your physician.

Avian flu, or bird flu, is an infectious disease in birds that can be transmitted to humans. It can cause fever and progress to pneumonia. The virus is also characterized by a high mortality rate. The infectious agents of the disease are subtypes of type A influenza virus (H5N1, H5N2, etc.).

Facts about Avian Flu

Bird flu was first discovered by an Italian veterinarian in 1878. It was widely believed that humans were not susceptible to infectious diseases occurring in animals. However, the first case of human infection with avian flu was identified in Hong Kong in 1997. It was associated with severe disease, and half the patients died.
The virus is spread from birds to humans but сannot be transmitted between humans. It is possible that avian influenza can mutate and evolve into a human-to-human transmission form.
The avian flu virus is resistant to environmental factors. It can survive for 3 months in bird droppings and up to 4 days in water. Besides, low temperatures maintain the viability of the virus.
Migratory waterfowl (wild ducks) and domestic birds (geese, chickens, turkeys) are the main sources of infection.
The seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against avian flu. There is no vaccine to prevent avian flu.

Who is at Risk of Getting Bird Flu?

Avian influenza is transmitted to humans through contact with infected birds (alive or dead) or bird droppings. People whose work brings them into contact with domestic and wild birds have a greater risk of infection.

Farmers, poultry farmworkers
Veterinarians and animal control officers
Workers in live bird markets
Ornithologists
Animal protection employees and rescuers that work with infected animals

Symptoms of Avian Flu in Humans

The incubation period (the time between infection and appearance of the first symptoms) of avian influenza is 2-3 days long on average. In rare cases, it may range from 4 to 8 days in length.
The symptoms of the bird flu are similar to those of the seasonal flu. Some patients may develop severe respiratory problems or pneumonia.

Signs of Avian Flu

Persistent fever (up to 12 days)
Chills and shivering
Headache
Muscle pain
Cough
Red eyes (often accompanied by conjunctivitis)
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
Viral Pneumonia. The patient is likely to have shortness of breath, a strong cough with white phlegm, sometimes with blood
The most severe cases develop liver and kidney problems
Risk Factors for Human Illness with Avian Flu
Age group (children under the age of 5 and adults ages 65 and older)
Late hospitalization
The presence of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart diseases

Prevention of Bird Flu in Humans

Do not let your child play with birds, especially if they show signs of illness
Use separate utensils for cooked and raw meat
Do not touch bird droppings, sick or dead birds
Do not eat undercooked or raw poultry
Do not eat raw eggs

Treatment for Avian Flu

Antiviral drugs help reduce the severity of the condition, prevent serious complications, and increase survival chances. People who have been in close contact with infected birds or those who have had contact with infected people (for example, family members or medical personnel) should be given preventative treatment.