Avian Flu: What are the Causes Symptoms and Treatments
Bird flu, also referred to as Although it primarily affects birds, the avian flu virus can also infect humans and other animals. There are many different strains of avian flu, and some of them can cause severe illness in humans. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of avian flu.
AVIAN FLU: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, TREATMENT AND PREVENTION
CAUSES:
Influenza viruses that naturally occur in birds cause avian flu.. These viruses are typically harmless to birds, but they can mutate and become dangerous to humans. The most common way that humans become infected with avian flu is through contact with infected birds or their droppings, saliva, or nasal secretions. It can also be spread through contaminated surfaces, such as cages or feeders.
SYMPTOMS:
The symptoms of avian flu in humans can range from mild to severe, and may include, For example:
- Pneumonia;
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle pain
Flu can cause organ failure and death in severe cases.
TREATMENT:
Avian does not have a specific treatment, but antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) can help to ease symptoms and lessen the severity of the illness. Hospitalization might be necessary in extreme cases to provide supportive care, like oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation.
PREVENTION:
Avoiding contact with infected birds, their droppings, saliva, or nasal secretions is the best way to prevent avian flu. • Cook all poultry products until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Get vaccinated for seasonal influenza as this can help to lower the risk of co-infection with avian.
- Frequently wash your hands in soap and water.
- When cleaning cages or handling poultry
- wear protective clothing.
- Don’t use unwashed hands to touch your mouth, nose, or eyes.
- Get a seasonal influenza vaccine.
CONCLUSION:
Avian is a serious illness that can affect both animals and humans. While there is no specific treatment for avian flu, early diagnosis and treatment can help to reduce the severity of the illness. The best defence against avian influenza is avoidance. contact with infecting birds and to practice good hygiene. By taking these steps, we can help to protect ourselves and others from this potentially deadly virus.
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