Bird flu symptoms in humans: What are they?

The symptoms of avian flu in humans are similar to the common flu, including fever, cough and muscle aches. Although the disease primarily affects birds, the H5N1 influenza virus can infect other animals and also be transmitted to humans. The acronym refers to hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). In humans, the condition of the patient can undergo a severe evolution, being influenced by the general health of the individual. Importantly, timely access to medical care plays a key role and can significantly affect recovery prospects.

The transmission of avian influenza occurs mainly through direct contact with infected birds and surfaces contaminated by them. It is of great importance to adopt preventive measures, such as avoiding contact with sick birds, washing hands regularly and following public health guidelines to reduce the risk of transmission. The World Health Organization (WHO) declares, “The virus does not easily infect humans and person-to-person transmission appears to be uncommon”. However, the population needs to start adopting preventive measures. “It is unlikely that a bird raised for consumption of meat or eggs, on an industrial scale, will become infected, as there is strictness in quality. Smaller farms, with production for their own consumption with animals raised in uncontrolled environments, can suffer from contamination”, said infectologist and director of Inspirali, Evaldo Stanislau

But an important point is that with proper meat preparation, the risk is minimized. According to WHO, “There is no evidence that the disease can be transmitted to people through properly prepared and well-cooked food.”

What are the symptoms

High fever;

Cough;

Shortness of breathe;

Muscle aches;

Intense fatigue;

Gastrointestinal;

Accute breathing insufficiency;

Sore throat;

Diarrhea.

medicine

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is an antiviral drug that reduces the severity of the disease, as directed by the WHO. Zanamivir (Relenza) is recommended by the UK NHS. There are currently no vaccines available to protect against avian flu.

Featured photo: Avian flu virus/Mail/Reproduction