Avian influenza (bird flu) is a rare respiratory illnesses caused by the influenza A viruses that primarily infect birds with the H5N1 and H7N9 strains affecting humans. Birds, especially wild waterfowl and domestic poultry, are the primary hosts of the infection with human infections being relatively rare and can occur following direct or close contact with infected birds. Transmission between humans is not common. The fatality rate in humans is around 50%.
Clinical features in humans:
Typically: fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, conjunctivitis
If severe: pneumonia, encephalitis
Diagnosis is by laboratory testing of nose and throat swab.
Treatment:
Supportive.
Antivirals such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu®), peramivir, zanamivir
Prevention:
Traveling to areas affected by bird flu should be done with caution and protective measures taken to avoid contact.
Use of personal protective equipment if working with infected birds.
Avian influenza in humans is a notifiable disease in many countries and is followed up by public and animal health agencies to prevent further spread. Typically the infected birds and the entire flock on the farm are culled and the farm where the outbreak occurred is isolated for a period of time.
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