Bird flu confirmed in 4 states, all you need to know

Cases of Bird Flu have been reported from many parts of India. In Himachal Pradesh, with the death toll of migratory waterbirds rising to 2,401. Wildlife authorities on Monday confirmed avian influenza (H5N1) as the cause. Other states that have reported bird flu are Kerala, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Communication of the ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) situated in Madhya Pradesh’s Bhopal stated that all the five birds sent tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza virus.

The local authority earlier issued an alert by prohibiting all human activities within a 10-km radius of the Pong wetlands in Kangra district.

What is Avian Influenza:

It refers to the disease caused by infection with avian (bird) influenza Type A viruses. These viruses occur naturally among wild aquatic birds and can infect poultry and other bird and animal species.

Avian influenza is a viral disease that is transmissible and can spread from one bird to other birds and animals. It can also be transmitted to humans.

Normally, Avian flu viruses do not infect humans. But, sporadic human infections have previously been reported.

The symptoms of Avian flu start to show within two to seven days of infection. The symptoms include Cough, Sore throat, Fever, Muscle aches, Headache, Shortness of breath. People also complain of nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In rare cases, people also suffer from a mild eye infection.

Bird flu can also lead to life-threatening complications, which includes Pneumonia, Pink eye (conjunctivitis), Respiratory failure, Kidney dysfunction and Heart problems.

How to cure it:

1) Do not consume domesticated birds: Avoid buying meat from open-market, small farms.

2) Wash your hands properly to avoid infections. Always keep a sanitizer handy.

3) Flu shot: It can’t really give you protection from the bird flu but it may help lower the risk of infection with bird and human flu viruses, according to Mayo Clinic.

4) It can also be treated with antiviral drugs. It is necessary to take medicines within 48 hours of showing symptoms. Besides the person infected with bird flu, other members of the household who came in contact with them are also advised to take these medicines, even if they do not have symptoms.

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Also Read: Bird flu alert sounded in Madhya Pradesh after crow deaths