Avian influenza, or ‘bird flu’, is a disease caused by an avian influenza A virus that normally infects only birds. In fact, all subtypes of the influenza A virus have their origin in wild birds, which means that influenza is a disease which cannot be eradicated. Waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, are natural reservoirs […]
Classical vaccines against different highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses for use in domestic poultry and other birds have been developed successfully. These are adjuvanted vaccines that provide adequate and broad protection against disease caused by HPAI virus strains. Vaccination of poultry and other domestic or zoo birds may also prevent or reduce human exposure to […]
Continuous global surveillance of influenza is key. The World Health Organization (WHO) has a network of 112 National Influenza Centres that monitor influenza activity and isolate avian influenza viruses across all continents. National Influenza Centres report the emergence of an unusual influenza virus immediately to the WHO Global Influenza Programme or to one of the […]
As with all types of flu, the basic medical advice in the case of suspicions or confirmations of a bird flu infection is plenty of rest and drinking lots of liquids. Antiviral medication may help in relieving some of the symptoms, however antibiotics (e.g. penicillin) are not effective. Classic generic flu drugs, such as amantadine […]
Travellers, especially those going to high-risk zones such as Southeast Asia, should follow the guidelines below in order to avoid contracting avian influenza: Avoid any close contact with domesticated birds. Prevent bird flu contact by avoiding rural areas, small farms or open-air markets. Avoid any close contact with domesticated birds. Prevent bird flu contact by […]