What causes human infection with avian influenza?These are its causes, symptoms and forms of transmission

written in information he March 18, 2024 · 5:30 pm

this bird flu also known as bird fluis a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects birds but can in some cases be transmitted to humans, causing global concern due to its potential to lead to epidemic and pandemic outbreaks.

Avian influenza poses a significant threat to public health and the poultry industry worldwide, so a detailed understanding of the disease’s causes, symptoms and modes of transmission, as well as preventive measures, is critical. control.

Causes of avian influenza:

Avian influenza is caused by several subtypes of influenza A virus, particularly H5, H7 and H9 subtypes. These viruses are commonly found in wild waterfowl such as ducks and gulls, but can also infect domestic poultry such as chickens and turkeys.

The virus is transmitted among birds primarily through direct contact with infected birds and through respiratory secretions and contaminated feces.

What causes human infection with avian influenza?This is how it spreads

this Avian flu spreads from birds to humans It usually occurs through direct contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as cages or poultry equipment. However, cases of human-to-human transmission have also been reported in very specific circumstances, particularly in settings involving close and prolonged contact with infected people, such as in household settings or in the care of sick people.

Symptoms of bird flu:

Birds infected with avian influenza viruses may display a variety of symptoms, including Drowsiness, loss of appetite, runny nose, difficulty breathing, head and neck edema, diarrhea

In severe cases, herd mortality is high.

Importantly, not all infected birds show symptoms, making early detection and control of the disease in poultry populations difficult.

How does avian influenza affect humans?

Although avian influenza is a disease that primarily affects birds, some subtypes of the virus, such as H5N1 and H7N9, have the ability to infect humans.

this Bird flu symptoms in humans They range from mild illnesses similar to the common flu, including fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue, to more severe illnesses that can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure and even death.

How to prevent bird flu?

this Avian Influenza Prevention and Control For both birds and humans, they are vital in reducing the risk of disease transmission.

Key preventive measures include biosecurity on poultry farms, vaccination of poultry in high-risk areas, epidemiological surveillance and early detection of cases in birds and humans, appropriate use of personal protective equipment for persons in contact with infected birds, and public education on safe poultry handling and consumption habits.