Bird Flu: What It Is And How To Protect Yourself.

 This article was written by Sarah Greenwood, Physician assistant at MedStar Health.

It might seem like nearly the whole country experienced flu symptoms at some point this winter. However, you may be relieved to know that most cases were unrelated to a less common strain of the flu that recently made headlines—avian influenza (bird flu). Here’s what you should know about bird flu, especially if you own or work with birds and other livestock. 

What is the bird flu?

Also known as H5N1, this virus is a disease caused by influenza A viral infections that primarily affect birds, although it can also spread to other animals as well as humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sporadic outbreaks in wild birds are widespread across the world currently. While the public health risk for the United States remains low, there have been 70 cases of avian flu in dairy cows and poultry identified in the country. Several people have also contracted bird flu in the U.S., while most human cases are occurring outside of the country. 

Bird flu can cause symptoms similar to other strains of the flu.

Most human cases of bird flu appear to be fairly comparable to your typical flu symptoms. As a result, it’s nearly impossible to distinguish bird flu from other flu variants unless you get tested. Bird flu symptoms may include:

• Cough

• Fever

• Congestion

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

While in most cases in the U.S., symptoms range from mild to moderate, certain populations have a greater risk of serious illness. For example, the very young or elderly have the greatest risk of severe symptoms, as do those with compromised immune systems due to certain medications or cancer treatments. There has been one bird flu-related death in the United States, while the rest of the world is seeing much higher mortality rates of 50 percent. 

If you know you’ve been in contact with birds, particularly large flocks or waterfowl, and you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek care. At MedStar Health Urgent Care, we can quickly swab your throat or nose and analyze it to determine whether or not you have the flu. If you have a risk of exposure, we can send in the sample for additional subtype tests to rule out the avian flu. 

Seeking care if you suspect you’ve been exposed is especially important for case reporting so we can help to identify any outbreaks and manage the spread.

How does bird flu spread?

The avian flu spreads through direct contact with an infected animal—dead or alive. Animals can quickly spread the virus through their saliva, feces, or any other bodily fluid to other animals, and it’s especially contagious among birds. People can become infected if they handle infected animals, as even respiratory droplets invisible to the naked eye can pass the virus through an individual’s mouth, eyes, or nose. In addition, it’s possible to get the virus if you eat undercooked meat or eggs or come into contact with a surface contaminated with the virus. Pets and other livestock can also become infected if they eat or come into contact with infected birds, undercooked or raw meat, or unpasteurized milk. 

So far, there have been no instances of person-to-person transmission in the U.S. However, poultry workers, veterinarians, and other people who work closely with people may have a higher risk of contracting the virus. 

Can I get bird flu from birds in my backyard?

Interestingly, not all birds have an equal risk of contracting the avian flu or spreading the virus. Birds with the greatest risk include wild aquatic birds, such as:

• Ducks

• Geese

• Gulls

• Sandpipers

• Strokes

• Swans

Because the virus can spread quickly among birds, it can also spread to domesticated birds, such as chicken and turkeys. However, it is unlikely that you will get the avian flu from feeding birds in your backyard. Still, it’s wise to take some precautions in how you handle any birdhouses or bird feeders.

How can I protect myself against the avian flu?

The best way to prevent bird flu is to avoid potential exposures. Generally, it’s a good idea to:

• Avoid contact with any dead wild animals

• Wear personal protective equipment if you work with sick or dead wild birds or poultry

• Don’t touch surfaces that may be contaminated with wild animal feces or saliva

• Wear gloves if you’re cleaning out your birdfeeder or bird houses

• Consume only pasteurized milk and milk products as well as fully cooked meat and eggs

• Get the seasonal flu vaccine, which may reduce your risk of severe illness

If you experience any flu-like symptoms or suspect you’ve been exposed, it’s important to seek care early. The avian flu is typically treatable with antibiotics, and it’s ideal to start treatment within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.