- The
current bird flu (H5N1) affects birds and does not easily transfer to
humans. So far, the spread of H5N1 virus from person to person
has been limited and has not continued beyond one person.
- It is
possible that the present bird flu may mutate and
begin transmitting between humans. There is no means of determining
when such a change will occur.
- According
to the CDC, there has been no evidence to date of this strain on the
North American continent.
Click here to see the latest number of Avian
Flu cases reported by the World Health Organization
(WHO).
- The
reported symptoms of avian influenza in humans range
from typical flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat, and
muscle aches) to eye infections (conjunctivitis), pneumonia, acute
respiratory distress, viral pneumonia, and other severe and
life-threatening complications.
- There has
been some work in vaccine development against the
current bird flu strain, however, since the human strain doesn’t exist
yet, a vaccine cannot yet be developed.
- Normal
cooking temperatures recommended for cooking poultry
will destroy the H5N1 virus. Temperatures of 70 degrees C (160 degrees
F) completely kill the virus.
- As is the
case with “regular” flu, proper hand washing, which
should consist of washing with soap and water for 15-20 seconds, can
help stop the spread of avian flu germs.
-
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may have become
contaminated with flu secretions, using products that are EPA
registered disinfectants, will help kill flu germs.
- Getting
immunizations will keep your family in top health.
Flu shots are easy, cost little, and save lives. Make sure you and
your kids get the shot suggested by your doctor.
-
Pets and wild animals are susceptible to flu
viruses. Be careful with pets, be sure they regularly see the vet, and
avoid contact with wild animals. Always wash hands after touching
animals or animal waste. Wild animals can carry diseases and pass them
to you and your pets. Keep your house free of wild animals by not
leaving any food around, and keep garbage cans sealed.
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