Updated: 20 November 2008
What is Avian Influenza H5N1
Avian (bird) influenza (flu) is a contagious disease caused by viruses that normally infect only birds. However, avian influenza viruses can also infect humans causing illness and occasionally death. H5N1 is one particular type of avian influenza virus that has spread to many countries. Please see World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) Web site for the latest updates.
The first human cases of H5N1 were identified in Vietnam and in Thailand in early 2004. In 2005, human cases were also found in Cambodia, Indonesia and China. In January 2006, the first human cases and deaths were reported in Turkey and Iraq.
Many millions of poultry have been destroyed and the outbreaks caused great disruption and economic losses, particularly in countries in South East Asia that have been hit hardest by the virus. In Viet Nam, the first poultry outbreak of Avian Influenza reported since December 2005 occurred on 6 December 2006. A detailed daily update on poultry outbreaks and affected provinces is posted on the FAO website at the link: www.fao.org.vn
Avian influenza is now widespread in many countries and it is unlikely that the virus will be eradicated within the next few years. While avian influenza H5N1 persists in the poultry population, the risk to humans will remain.
Before the key facts put:
You can protect yourself, your family and your community from this very serious threat through the following key actions:
1. Avoid contact with sick or dead poultry - Report sick or dead poultry immediately to the authorities.
2. Handle and slaughter all poultry safely (wear mask, gloves, use disinfectant)
3. Cook poultry thoroughly ( do not eat pink meat, runny eggs or raw duck blood)
4. Wash hands with soap before and after handling live poultry and preparing for cooking
Remember:
- Bird flu kills but it can be prevented
- Bird flu can be transmitted from poultry to humans
- Not all infected birds show symptoms of bird flu – Your poultry at home could be infected without you knowing
For further information, please contact WHO, 63
Tran Hung Dao Street,
Ha Noi, Viet Nam
Telephone: (84) 4 943 3734, Fax: (84) 4 943 3740,
Email: media@vtn.wpro.who.int
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