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Avian Influenza

Avian Influenza. Bird Flu H5N1. Avian Influenza…. Is a respiratory illness in birds Wild birds and ducks are the natural reservoir for infection, though they are generally unaffected by the virus

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Avian Influenza

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  1. Avian Influenza Bird Flu H5N1

  2. Avian Influenza… • Is a respiratory illness in birds • Wild birds and ducks are the natural reservoir for infection, though they are generally unaffected by the virus • Usually does not affect humans; however, in 1997, there were documented cases of humans infected with avian influenza viruses

  3. The H5N1 Virus Is… • A particularly virulent strain of the avian flu virus that can cause severe illness in birds • One of the strains “jumping the species barrier” and being transmitted from sick birds to people According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), all influenza viruses have the ability to change and H5N1 could one day be able to spread easily from one person to another.

  4. Avian Influenza H5N1 • Scientists believe most cases in humans resulted from contact with the infected saliva, blood or feces of infected poultry or contaminated surfaces • So far the spread of H5N1 flu virus from person to person has been rare

  5. Requirements for a Pandemic • A new virus emerges for which the population has no immunity • The new virus must be able to replicate in humans and cause disease • The new virus must be efficiently transmitted from human to human • We do not yet know if H5N1 will develop into a pandemic

  6. Avian Flu Vaccine to combat H5N1 • Human trials conducted. Needs further development • $100 million contract for production awarded mid-September 2005 • Available in 6-9 months

  7. Early symptoms include: fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches Later in the disease, respiratory complications (like pneumonia) can develop If you were in contact with contaminated birds 2-6 days before the onset of symptoms Laboratory tests How do you know if you have Avian Flu?

  8. Preventive Measures • Eat only well-cooked meat and eggs • Practice proper hygiene when preparing food • Wash hands frequently with soap and water (at least 15-20 seconds) • Cover your nose and mouth when coughing • If you are sick, stay home; avoid other people who are obviously sick • Avoid live animal markets that sell birds, chickens, and ducks • Get the flu shot

  9. Stay home. Rest, drink plenty of fluids Avoid others, practice good hygiene (avoid coughing onto other people, wash hands, don’t share food and drink) Notify your doctor, who can evaluate your symptoms What if I have flu symptoms?

  10. Close monitoring by health professionals, symptomatic support Although still under study, Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is one of the drugs to be considered in the treatment of Avian Flu Treatment

  11. Get the flu shot! • Best time to get it is October to November, peak season is December to March • Vaccine is 70% - 90% effective • One dose for adults; two doses for children aged 6 months to 9 years • Some people should not get the vaccine – speak to your doctor • Does not prevent Avian Flu

  12. Summary: Avian Flu Precautions • Learn about the basics of Avian Flu • Be on high alert about flu-like symptoms and report your symptoms to your health care provider in a timely fashion • Take your flu shot

  13. What you need to do now • Supplies • Stock up on non-perishable food items and water • Update your cell phone numbers • Keep your influenza immunization current • Ensure you are registered with the Embassy or Consulate

  14. For further information • http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian • http://www.who.int/csr/disease/ avian_influenza/en/ • http://www.pandemicflu.gov • http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/health/health_1181.html

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