Avian Influenza (avian influenza or bird flu) is caused by a mutated strain of the influenza virus that occurs in poultry, whether it is wild birds, ducks, or chickens, either naturally occurring or raised in enclosures. Some other animal species can also be at risk of H5N1 avian influenza, but it is mostly found in poultry such as birds, ducks, chickens, and birds. Therefore, the disease is called avian influenza or bird flu.
This is the route of transmission from poultry to humans!
Infection may occur during transportation or at places where poultry is sold through human contact with these infected animals, which can happen to people of all ages and genders. The virus is transmitted through the feces and secretions of infected poultry. If there is contact with feces or secretions containing the virus, and the virus is inhaled into the body,
Additionally, consuming poultry or eggs without proper cooking also increases the risk of avian influenza virus infection. Safe poultry meat is meat cooked at a temperature of 74 degrees Celsius or higher. Poultry eggs, such as chicken or duck eggs, should be cooked until both the egg white and yolk are fully cooked.
Do we have avian influenza? Observe these symptoms
- Symptoms are similar to influenza but more severe, such as high fever, muscle pain, and headache
- Respiratory problems such as coughing or runny nose
- Some patients initially experience other sudden symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, chest pain, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, or conjunctivitis
Additionally, many patients in the early stages experience respiratory symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hoarseness, wheezing when breathing, and sputum production. Some may have blood mixed in the sputum.
Don’t want to get avian influenza? Here are self-protection guidelines
- Avoid contact with birds and poultry (whether alive or dead) or their feces
- If you come into contact with these animals, wash your hands thoroughly with soap immediately
- Cook food made from poultry products and eggs thoroughly before eating
- Travelers returning from infected areas should see a doctor as soon as possible if they experience flu-like symptoms, inform the doctor of their travel history, and wear a mask to prevent disease spread
Did you know? The sooner you see a doctor… the better your chances of treating avian influenza
If you are at risk of H5N1 avian influenza, you should go to the hospital immediately because H5N1 avian influenza can be cured if treated promptly. Once the doctor confirms the diagnosis of avian influenza virus infection, the patient will be treated in the hospital, isolated from other patients, and closely monitored because H5N1 avian influenza symptoms are quite severe and carry a risk of complications.
During treatment, doctors will advise rest, plenty of fluids, and taking paracetamol to reduce fever and pain, along with antiviral medication to reduce symptom severity, prevent possible complications, and increase survival chances. These medications are most effective if given within 48 hours after symptoms begin. However, in the case of avian influenza, it is not yet confirmed if this is always the case, so treatment should be started as soon as possible, even if it is beyond 48 hours after symptom onset.
Dr. Wongsawan Silpipat
Internist, Phyathai 2 Hospital
