Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can sometimes infect humans and other animals.
H5N1 and H7N9 are the most concerning strains for human health due to their potential severity.
Spread occurs through direct contact with infected birds, droppings, or contaminated surfaces. Proper cooking of poultry kills the virus.
Infections in humans are rare and often linked to close contact with infected birds.
Symptoms range from fever, cough, and sore throat to severe pneumonia and respiratory failure.
Outbreaks lead to mass culling of poultry, affecting food supplies and causing significant economic losses in the poultry industry.
Avoid handling live birds or visiting live bird markets in outbreak areas. Cook poultry thoroughly.
Scientists monitor the risk of mutations that could enable human-to-human transmission, which might lead to a pandemic.
Vaccines exist but are limited. Antivirals like Tamiflu can be effective when used early in treatment.
Governments and health agencies actively monitor outbreaks to contain the virus and prevent global spread.