Bird flu Canada

Risk of bird flu for many a Canadians is quite slow. Although it is very important to know how one can minimize the risk of getting infected through Bird flu, especially while crossing the areas that are infected of the bird flu. Bird flu basically is a viral infection that can spread easily and swiftly among birds. There are usually 15 types of bird flu. All of them are generally caused by various strains of type A influenza virus. Birds spread bird flu virus to one another through secretions and droppings. Some species of wild birds, such as ducks, can carry the virus and infect other birds without getting ill themselves. Other bird species, including domestic poultry, are more likely to become seriously ill and die when infected.

Difference between human and bird flu

It is essential not to confuse human cases of bird influenza with cases of human influenza. Human influenza is a familiar respiratory disease that spreads easily and rapidly from person to person. Although different strains of bird flu virus circulate year-round among birds, the virus does not usually spread to people. In rare instances, however, people do contract bird flu. The exact mode of transmission from birds to people is not known, but most human cases of bird flu have been traced to direct contact with live infected birds or their droppings. The scientific evidence to date shows that bird flu virus does not spread easily or rapidly from one person to another.

How to avoid the human flu

Although human cases of bird flu are rare, people who become infected with the H5N1 virus can become seriously ill and may die. The symptoms can be similar to those of human influenza, including fever, cough, aching muscles and a sore throat. The human health effects of bird flu can also include eye infections and serious respiratory infections, including pneumonia. At this time, there is no vaccine to provide people with specific protection against bird flu. Studies suggest that certain anti-viral drugs designed to fight human influenza may also help prevent serious illness in people who become infected with the bird flu virus.