FAQs Bird Flu answered

 Bird Flu confirmed in more than 10 states in India

• What is Bird Flu?

Bird Flu or "avian influenza", or "avian flu" is an infection caused by avian (bird) influenza(flu) viruses.

These flu viruses occur naturally among birds. Wild birds worldwide carry the viruses in their intestines, but usually do not get sick from them.

• Do bird flu viruses infect humans?

Bird flu viruses do not usually infect humans, but many cases of human infection with avian flu viruses have occurred since 1997.

• How does avian flu spread in birds?

Infected birds shed flu viruses in their saliva , nasal secretions, and faeces(droppings).

Susceptible birds become infected when they have contact with contaminated excretions or surfaces that are contaminated excretions or surfaces that are contaminated with excretions.

• How does avian flu spread in humans?

Most cases of bird flu infection in humans have resulted from contact with infected poultry or contaminated surfaces. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission so far.

• What to do if you find a dead bird?

Inform the local authorities immediately.

They may send the bird for testing to find out whether or not it was infected with the avian influenza virus.

Inform the civic authorities in case of unusual death of poultry.

• Is it safe to eat poultry and poultry products?

Poultry and poultry products can be prepared  and consumed as usual. The virus is destroyed when cooked at a temperature of 70 degree Celsius for 30 minutes.

One should continue to follow good hygiene and cooking practices.

• How can avian flu be controlled in poultry?

Currently, culling is the only way to contain avian flu in poultry.

• Which states have been impacted by the bird flu?

Delhi, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Gujarat have confirmed bird flu amid nationwide efforts to contain the spread.

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