Avian Influenza Virus
What Should We Be Concerned About The Avian Influenza
Virus?
The avian influenza A virus causes avian influenza or “bird
flu” in birds. There are many different strains of the
bird flu which can cause a range of symptoms and illness from
mild to highly contagious and fatal disease.
There are at least 15 different strains of the avian influenza
virus. Basically, this virus is spread through birds by secretions
and droppings. Very often, the wild fowl will carry the disease
without becoming ill, but since many of these species are
migratory, they stand a chance to spread avian influenza viruses
to other communities and infecting domestic poultry.
Poultry flocks are often more weaker to the more severe and
even fatal strains of the virus. As long as avian influenza
viruses are confined to birds, there is almost no risk to
humans. Concerns begin when the viral strains begin jumping
from species to species, which will allow other animals and
even humans to become ill from the virus. Sometimes these
diseases are symptomatically mild in nature, but other times
they can become quite dangerous.
The Preventive Tips
If you are very worried about the potential risks involved
with the mutation of the H5N1 avian influenza virus, look
at some tips to give yourself piece of mind. First of all,
you can get your flu shot every year. While the common influenza
vaccination is not developed particularly for avian flu strains,
it may help reduce the severity of symptoms in some avian
influenza viruses.
Secondly, make it a habit of washing your hands regularly.
This simple step is extremely important in controlling the
spread of many infectious diseases. Finally, if you are ill,
stay home and get plenty of rest in bed, fluids and symptom
treatment with over-the-counter medications.
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