1. What is bird flu?

There are many types of bird flu, which occur naturally and are of varying severity. The avian influenza A (H5N1) virus that has been reported in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East first surfaced in 2003, has severe effects on birds, and the potential to be fatal in humans. More than 100 million birds were affected or died of the virus in Asia before it was temporarily brought under control in March 2004. Since June 2004, more cases have been reported – including those in Europe and the Middle East – as a result of wild bird migration.

2. How can you catch it?

Primarily through close contact with infected poultry (domesticated ducks, chickens, or turkeys) or surfaces contaminated with saliva, feces, or nasal secretions from infected birds.

3. What are the symptoms?

H5N1 may cause typical flu-like symptoms (such as fever, sore, throat, cough, and muscle aches), eye infections, pneumonia, respiratory disease, as well as other severe and life-threatening complications.

4. How do you know whether you have it?

A laboratory test is required for conclusive results.

5. How is bird flu treated in humans?

H5N1 viruses have proven resistant to two forms of antiviral medication, amantadine and rimantadine. Scientists are optimistic that two other antiviral medications, oseltamivir and zanamavir, would treat influenza cause by H5N1 viruses. Studies as to their efficacy are ongoing. There is no human vaccine commercially available, although development efforts are underway.

6. How many human cases have been reported worldwide?

In its most recent report on avian influenza A/H5N 1 virus, released on March 6, the World Health Organization said that 175 cases had been confirmed worldwide, resulting in 95 deaths since 2003.

7. In which countries have humans contracted the virus?

Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Iraq, Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam, according to the WHO.

8. Has the avian influenza A/H5N1 virus been detected in America – either in birds or humans?

No.

9. Can bird flu spread from person to person?

The spread of bird flu from person to person has been reported rarely, and has not been observed to continue beyond one person. The risk exists for the virus – if given opportunity – to develop into a highly infectious form that could spread easily between people.

10. Can you catch bird flu by eating poultry?

There is no evidence that the virus can be contracted by eating properly cooked eggs and poultry.

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION AND THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION.