Pandemic / Avian Flu Information and Planning

Bird (Avian) Flu FAQ

Updated: 9/11/08, 8:10 a.m.

What is bird flu? Where does it occur?

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is an infectious disease of birds caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. The disease was identified more than 100 years ago and occurs worldwide. Since 2003, the virus of current concern (H5N1) has been spreading through flocks of birds in Asia and, as of September 2008, to birds in nearly 60 countries. The virus is expected to spread through migratory waterfowl routes around the globe. Domestic poultry, such as chickens and turkeys, also are susceptible to bird flu, particularly when raised outside, as are other animals, primarily those that eat birds.

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How serious is bird flu?

For birds, it is quite serious, as infection often leads to death. So far, the disease does not appear to infect people easily. Most of the human cases of bird flu have occurred in individuals who have regular contact with poultry. As of September 2008, the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed 387 human cases. The current fatality rate exceeds 60 percent. Health officials are concerned that the avian influenza virus (H5N1), currently present in birds, may mutate into a virus capable of efficient human-to-human transmission, resulting in widespread disease and the next influenza pandemic.

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What is the difference between bird flu and seasonal (or common) flu?

Bird flu is caused by influenza viruses that occur naturally among wild birds. The H5N1 variant is deadly to domestic fowl and can be transmitted from birds to humans. The mortality rate in human cases exceeds 50 percent. Seasonal (or common) flu is a respiratory illness that can be transmitted person to person. Most people have some immunity to this type of flu, a vaccine is available and mortality rates are low. Seasonal influenza causes about 36,000 deaths per year in the United States but has a much lower percentage mortality rate than bird flu.

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Is there a vaccine for bird flu?

Presently, there is no widespread, effective vaccine for bird flu, but pharmaceutical companies are working to create one. There are antiviral medications like Oseltamavir (brand name Tamiflu), but they are only effective after exposure to H5N1 or when exposure is imminent. Taking such medication ahead of time is ineffective and personal stockpiling is not recommended. The federal government currently controls the stockpile of Tamiflu and other potentially helpful antiviral drugs to assure that supplies are available, if needed, to those who most need them.

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How can I prevent transmission of bird flu if it begins to rapidly infect humans?

As with any flu strain, transmission is accomplished by close contact with an infected party, surface or environment. Therefore, it’s best to practice good hygiene. To best protect yourself and others:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • If possible, stay home and away from work, school or social activities during the first few days of a respiratory or flu-like illness.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, handkerchief or the sleeve of your clothing when coughing or sneezing.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water, or if none of these are available, use waterless wipes.
  • Avoid unnecessary touching of your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Use a disposable mask if you have a respiratory infection and must be out in public.

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Can I get bird flu from eating poultry?

Not if the meat is properly cooked. Influenza viruses are destroyed by heat as long as the cooking temperature is 138° F (70° C). However, officials believe that inadequate hygiene during food preparation can transmit the virus, so be sure to separate raw meat from cooked or ready-to-eat foods. Do not use the same chopping board or the same knife for preparing raw meat and cooked or ready-to-eat foods. Wash your hands in between handling raw and cooked foods. Do not return cooked meat to the same plate or surface it was on before it was cooked. Wash unbroken eggs in soapy water before handling or cooking. Do not use raw or soft-boiled eggs in foods that will not be cooked. After handling raw poultry or eggs, wash your hands, cooking surfaces and utensils thoroughly with soap and water.
If you are eating prepared food from the market or in a restaurant, eat cooked foods while the food is still hot.

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If there is an outbreak of bird flu in humans while I am abroad, can I get antiviral treatment from the U.S. embassy or consulate in my area?

While the United States government has decided to preposition the drug Tamiflu at its embassies and consulates worldwide, it is designated for eligible U.S. government employees and their families serving abroad.  Currently, there is no provision for the U.S. government to provide American citizens traveling or living abroad with medications, including Tamiflu, in the event of a pandemic.

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If I can’t get antiviral treatment from an embassy or consulate abroad, how do I obtain it?

Antiviral medication such as Tamiflu and others may not be readily available overseas or in the United States because of issues concerning supply and preserving these drugs for those who are in most need of them. If you believe you may have been exposed to bird flu or any other serious illness, you should seek medical help and advice.

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Should I avoid contact with animals while abroad?

The CDC advises travelers to Asia and other countries with documented H5N1 outbreaks to avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in live food markets and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces or fluids from poultry or other animals.

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Where can I get the most up-to-date information about bird flu and travel risks?

These recommendations may change on a regular basis, so please go to the following Web sites for updated information:

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