Bird flu, also called avian flu, is a strain of influenza (flu) that infects mostly wild water birds but can infect domestic birds (poultry) and other animals. These strains belong to influenza A type viruses.
It’s not usual, but bird flu can also infect people. The most common subtypes that may affect humans are A(H5N1), A(H7N9) and A(H9N2). The symptoms can range from mild (pink eye) to severe flu-like illness that results in respiratory failure or death.
What are the signs and symptoms of bird flu?
The signs and symptoms of bird flu in people may vary. They may include typical flu symptoms like:
Fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius) or higher.
Infected individuals may also develop secondary bacterial infections. In severe cases of avian flu, an infected person might experience neurologic symptoms like seizures or mental changes. Bird flu might also cause multi-organ failure or septic shock.
Bird flu can’t be diagnosed by symptoms alone. Your provider may take a swab from your nose or throat. These specimens need to have specialized testing done and you may be referred to a public health department. Best results happen when the testing happens early, as symptoms develop.
Your Family, Our Responsibility !