What Is Bird Flu?
Bird flu is caused by influenza A viruses that usually live in wild birds like ducks and geese. Sometimes, these viruses can spread to chickens, turkeys, other animals and even people. Not all types of bird flu are dangerous to humans, but a few—like H5N1 and H7N9—have raised concerns in the past.
How Does It Spread?
“Most people who get bird flu have had close contact with infected birds or their droppings, like those who work on poultry farms or visit live bird markets,” explains Thomas M. Kerkering, MD, chief of Infectious Disease at Carilion Clinic. “Right now, it doesn’t spread easily from person to person and presents a low risk to the general population. That said, experts are keeping a close eye on the virus in case it changes.”
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of bird flu in humans can range from mild to severe. They may include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Pink eye
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Muscle aches
- Trouble breathing
- Pneumonia
- Organ failure (in extreme cases)
The symptoms usually show up within a week or so after exposure. Severe cases may need hospital care.
How Is Bird Flu Treated?
Doctors can diagnose bird flu by running lab tests on your throat or nose swabs to find the virus. Mild cases can be treated like any other cold or flu: with rest, fluids and over-the-counter meds to ease symptoms. For more severe cases, treatment options may include:
- Antiviral Medications: Drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) can help if you take them early
- Supportive Care: This might include oxygen or even a ventilator for extreme cases
- Experimental Treatments: Scientists are also testing new treatments to fight the virus
How Can You Stay Safe?
Right now, bird flu isn’t a major risk for most people. But there are a few simple ways to make getting the virus even less likely:
- Eat Safe Foods: Make sure your chicken and eggs are fully cooked, and only drink pasteurized milk
- Wash Your Hands: Especially after handling animals or raw poultry
- Avoid Sick Birds: Make sure you (and your pets!) stay away from wild birds, especially those that are dead or look ill
- Get Your Flu Shot: While the seasonal flu shot won’t keep you from getting bird flu, it can lessen its severity
Why Is Bird Flu a Big Deal?
Bird flu is mostly a concern because the virus could change and start spreading easily between people. That’s why health experts are always watching it closely. For now, the risk to most people is low.
Following basic safety tips and staying informed about outbreaks is the best way to stay safe. If you’re experiencing symptoms, reach out to your primary care physician.
