FAO warns of risk of avian flu spread during Chinese New Year

The trade and handling of poultry has increased in preparation for the Asian Lunar New Year celebrations. In addition, the Lunar New Year travel peak will begin in February 2024. In response to this situation, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has issued an alert to all veterinary professionals.

because Latest report on avian influenza epidemic Artificial intelligence (AI) in poultry and wild birds, and increased levels of trade and travel will lead to increased risks of human exposure to AI. Additionally, “several animal influenza viruses currently circulating in poultry have the potential to spread to humans and cause severe disease.”

Although until now Most human infections are sporadic As there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission following exposure to infected poultry and/or their environment, “surveillance remains critical.”

In light of the upcoming holidays and sporadic reports of human infections with avian influenza, FAO considers it necessary to reinforce certain important messages on hygiene and other preventive measures.

General precautions

They explained from the organization The public should minimize contact with animals in areas known to be affected by influenza viruses animals, including farms and other places where live animals may be sold or slaughtered, and avoid contact with any surfaces that may be contaminated with animal feces. Children, the elderly, pregnant and postpartum women (up to 6 weeks old) or people with weakened immune systems “should not collect eggs or assist in slaughtering or food preparation.”

he The public must strictly avoid contact with any sick or dead animalsincluding wild birds, “You should report a dead animal or contact your local veterinary authority to request its disposal.”

also, travelers to country People living in countries with known outbreaks of avian influenza should, if possible, “Avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in live poultry markets, entering areas where poultry may be slaughtered, and contact with any surface that may be contaminated by poultry or other animal feces. “

Maintain good hand hygiene

On the other hand, FAO reminds “everyone must Perform hand hygiene, it is best to wash your hands with soap and running water (especially if your hands are visibly soiled) or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. “In all situations, hand hygiene must be performed as thoroughly and as frequently as necessary,”But especially before and after contact with animals and their environment

“.

Everyone should also “practice good food safety habits: separate raw meat from cooked or ready-to-eat foods, keep surfaces clean, wash hands frequently, Cook food thoroughly and handle and store meat properly“.

Likewise, they note the importance of seeking medical attention “when sick or after contact with potentially infected animals or their environment.”

For public health professionals

FAO’s recommendations for public health workers include: Raise awareness of artificial intelligence among citizens and workersIn addition to “increasing surveillance and ensuring laboratories are fully equipped, especially in the highest risk areas.”

On the other hand, they called for Work closely with the animal department Reduce the risk of AI viruses spreading to humans in a way that is acceptable to the public, manufacturers and traders.

Recent human avian influenza cases

Although the risk of avian influenza virus transmission to humans is still considered low, there have been several reports of infected people.

On December 22, 2023, the Hong Kong government announced that according to official information from the Center for Health Protection (CHP), One new case of H5N6 avian influenza, the patient is a 33-year-old woman Lives in Bazhong City, Sichuan Province.

Another case involved a 63-year-old woman from Zhejiang Province, China. The victim suffered from underlying diseases and began to show symptoms on November 30 last year, and was admitted to the hospital for treatment on December 2. Finally died on December 16. In addition, his relevant close contacts showed no abnormalities during the medical observation period.Health authorities believe the woman is co-infected Having Avian Influenza A (H10N5) and Influenza A (H3N2)