Avian Influenza

Emily RinaldiWildlife & Fisheries Biology1 February 2013Avian InfluenzaWhat is Avian Influenza? Flu infection in birdsViral Disease

HistoryFirst case was found in Hong Kong Linked to chickens Classified as H5N1and H9N2 Since then other cases have been reported in Asia, Africa, Europe, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Pacific, and the near EastOver 60% of the infected die Trade restrictions have been put into place in order to prevent the spread of the virus

Avian Influenza in BirdsOccurs naturally in wild birdsLives in their intestines Usually does not cause them harmVery contagious to domesticated birds (Poultry) Animals in a small enclosed environment Usually resulting in severe illness then death Disease can be picked up in many waysContaminated waterClose proximity to infected feces, saliva, and other bodily fluids

Symptoms in BirdsRuffled feather Drop in egg productivity Mild respiratory affectsMassive hemorrhaging Spreads quickly through flocks Affects multiple organs 90% morality rate within 2 days

How it is passedVirus is capable of mutating to infect humansPeople with a high risk:Farmers and others who work with poultryTravelers visiting affected countriesThose who touch an infected birdThose who eat raw or undercooked poultry meat, eggs, or blood from infected birdsThose in contact with someone who has the Avian Flu An infected bird can carry the flu in its feces and saliva for up to 10 days

Symptoms in Humans Cough (dry or productive)DiarrheaDifficulty breathingFever greater than 100.4F (38C)HeadacheMalaiseMuscle achesRunny noseSore throat

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