Avian influenza in birds
Avian influenza is an infection caused by avian (bird) influenza (flu) A
viruses. These influenza A viruses occur naturally among birds. Wild
birds worldwide get flu A infections in their intestines, but usually do
not get sick from flu infections. However, avian influenza is very
contagious among birds and some of these viruses can make certain
domesticated bird species, including chickens, ducks, and turkeys, very
sick and kill them.
Human infection with avian influenza viruses
"Human influenza A viruses" usually refers to those influenza A subtypes that have spread widely among humans. Currently, H3N2 and H1N1 influenza A subtypes are circulating among humans . Some genetic parts of current human influenza A viruses had their origin in bird flu viruses originally. Influenza A viruses are constantly changing, and they might adapt over time to infect and spread among humans. During an outbreak of avian influenza among poultry, there is a possible risk of infection for people who have contact with infected birds or surfaces that have been contaminated with secretions or excretions from infected birds.
Symptoms
Symptoms of avian influenza in humans have ranged from typical human
influenza-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle
aches) to eye infections, pneumonia, severe respiratory diseases (such
as acute respiratory distress), and other severe and life-threatening
complications. The symptoms of avian influenza may depend on which virus
caused the infection.
No comments:
Post a Comment