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Avian Influenza (Bird
Flu)
Bird Flu is first
noticed in Asian countries and now spread across the globe like wildfire. Bird Flu is
transmitted to Humans from Birds. Bird Flu is a
viral Infection.
Bird Flu is first noticed in Asian countries and now
spread across the globe like wildfire.
Avian influenza is an infection caused by virus in birds and
so called Bird Flu. Wild birds carry the viruses, but usually do not get sick from
them. However, some domesticated birds, including chickens, ducks, and
turkeys, can become infected, often fatally. Avian H5N1 influenza
strains may infect various types of animals,
including wild birds, pigs, and tigers. This
epidemic avian influenza, the H5N1 virus, has spread into parts of Europe and Africa. Avian H5N1
infections have recently killed poultry and other birds in a number of
countries. In birds and animals the viral symptoms vary , but virulent strains can
cause death within a few days. Recently
Avian H5N1 Flu in Humans is established causing death to many. Red alert
signals from world health organization shows the seriousness of the
spread.
Human H5N1 influenza infection was first recognized in 1997 when this
virus infected 18 people in Hong Kong, causing 6 deaths. Currently, close contact with infected poultry has been the primary
source for human infection. Though rare, there have been isolated
reports of human-to-human transmission of the virus. Genetic studies confirm that the influenza A virus H5N1 mutates rapidly. The reported symptoms of avian influenza in humans have ranged from
typical influenza-like symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, sore throat, and
muscle aches) to eye infections (conjunctivitis), acute respiratory
distress, viral pneumonia and other severe, life-threatening
complications.
Preventing and Treating Avian Flu in Humans
Vaccines to protect humans against H5N1 viruses currently are under
development. In addition, research is underway on methods to make large
quantities of vaccine more quickly. Research suggests that two antiviral medicines, oseltamavir (Tami
flu)
and zanamavir (Relenza®), may be useful treatments for H5N1 avian
influenza. Some adverse reactions have been reported in children.
However, H5N1 viruses are generally resistant to two other available
antiviral medications, amantadine and rimantadine, so they cannot be
used to treat avian flu.
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