Avian Flu Issue - January 2006
What Do I Need To Know About Avian Flu?
Avian flu has been all over the news lately, and it's understandable to have some questions and concerns about it. Fortunately, we can tell you that avian flu, also known as "bird flu", is only a remote threat to the United States.
What is avian flu?
Avian flu is an infection caused by avian (bird) influenza (flu) viruses. These flu viruses occur naturally among birds. Wild birds worldwide carry the viruses in their intestines, but usually do not get sick from them. However, bird flu is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds very sick.
Am I at risk?
It's VERY unlikely. Risk to humans from avian flu is generally low because the virus does not usually infect humans. During an outbreak among poultry there is some risk to humans who come in direct contact with infected birds. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention person to person transmission of avian flu is very rare and so far has not continued beyond one person. In other words, unless you have had direct contact with an infected bird or close personal contact with someone who has, you are not at risk for avian flu.
Does the virus spread easily from birds to humans?
No. The World Health Organization reports that although some human cases have occurred in the current outbreak worldwide, this is a small number compared to the huge number of birds infected. People at the highest risk are those who come in contact with live birds, like poultry farmers or people who clean chicken coops. It is not presently understood why some people, and not others, become infected following similar exposures.
Can I get avian flu from eating chicken?
No-if the meat is fully cooked. Cooking kills viruses in poultry, meat, and eggs. It is always in the best interest of your health to fully cook raw poultry meat and to practice proper kitchen hygiene: hand washing and disinfecting of all surfaces that come into contact with poultry.
What can I do to protect myself?
Because avian flu has not yet been reported in this country, there is really nothing you need do currently to protect yourself. If you are traveling to Southeast Asia, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Traveler's Health Webpage (http://www.cdc.gov/travel/seasia.htm) to educate yourself about any disease risks and CDC health recommendations.
Can I be vaccinated against avian flu?
No: there is currently no vaccine for avian flu, though vaccine developments are under way.
Are there any websites that will offer me more information on the Avian Flu?
Yes. The following Web sites are very resourceful:
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention - www.cdc.gov/flu
- The World Health Organization - www.who.int/en
- Infectious Diseases Society of America - http://www.idsociety.org/
Q&A: Cold Versus Flu
What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Because these two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone.
In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu.
People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. If your symptoms are severe, or last more than one week, you should consult with a healthcare professional.