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Avian Influenza
What is it?
Avian Influenza is an infection caused by avian (bird) flu viruses. Wild birds worldwide carry the viruses in their intestines, but usually do not get sick from them. But the influenza is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds, including chickens, ducks and turkeys very sick and eventually kill them.
How does it spread?
Infected birds spread the influenza virus in their saliva, nasal secretions or excretions or with surfaces that are contaminated with secretions or excretions from infected birds. Domesticated birds may become infected with avian influenza virus through direct contact with infected waterfowl or other infected poultry or through contact with surfaces (such as dirt or cages) or materials (such as water or feed) that have been contaminated with the virus.
What happens if domestic poultry becomes infected?
Domestic poultry can be infected in two ways: one produces minor symptoms such as ruffled feathers and drop in egg production; the other spreads more rapidly through flocks and will affect major internal organs causing death within 48 hours.
Is the disease a risk to humans?
During an outbreak of avian influenza among poultry, there is a possible risk to people who contact the infected birds or surfaces that have been contaminated with secretions or excretions from infected birds. Symptoms in humans have ranged from typical human influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches) to ear infections, pneumonia, severe respiratory-diseases (such as acute respiratory distress) and other severe and life-threatening complication.
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