The Basics about Bird Flu

Avian influenza is a natural infection in wild birds, which are actually carriers without ever being affected by the disease. Never the less, the avian flu can be passed to domestic poultry through various types of contact such as sharing the same food and water or coming in contact with excrements and cages of contaminated birds. A fairly easy way of determining whether poultry such as chicken, ducks, turkeys has bird flu is microscope examination of their saliva and nasal secretions.

Bird flu caused by influenza A viruses does not have a spontaneous effect on humans. The possibility is rather low to many because we are not as susceptible to it as birds. Though rare, cases of human infection have been outlined by the press. The virus that spreads among humans is known as the human influenza virus and has three branches: H1N1, H1N2, H3N2. The viruses vary through the different types of proteins that form their genetic coat: Hemagglutinin and Neuraminidaze. Parts of the virus affecting humans have also been found in birds, but the main concern is that the virus is in permanent replication and may one day evolve into a more potent form.

Furthermore, there are two forms of influenza, differing through pathogenic capacity. The low form is usually not easily spotted and can cause minor derangements, while the high extremes of virulence are much more dangerous leading to high death ratio and damaging vital body parts.

Moreover, the H5N1 virus or the influenza A virus has affected a number of people. For this reason, it is becoming a nuisance in undeveloped regions of Asia and Africa where poverty is widespread and living conditions are at a limit. In these places transmission between different species of birds and bird to human transmission is very likely because people live in very close contact with their poultry. Generally the following manifestations are present: conjunctivitis, pneumonia, breathing disorder, fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches.

Although researchers are trying to come up with a vaccine as fast as possible, further experiments with the genetic coat of the virus are a must for the cure to be efficient. However, medication does exist. The likes of Zanamavir and Oseltamavir are currently on the market but it is not known whether they work or not.

At present time nobody can tell 100% if bird flu can cause a pandemic, but the H5N1 virus is closely monitored by experts worldwide.

For more information about bird flu or even about bird flu treatment please review this page http://www.bird-flu-info-center.com/bird-flu-treatment.htm

Bird Flu Manifestations In Poultry And Wild Birds

The avian flu is a specific bird condition that affects all kind of birds but wild ones seem to be more resistant and carry the virus without showing any obvious signs. Poultry is most sensitive to the virus and develop the disease; mild cases evolve with respiratory symptoms, low egg production ruffled feathers. The second type of illness is the rare but lethal infection and was first discovered 1878 in Italy. The severe symptoms appear sudden and the mortality can reach 100% in less than 48 hours; the viral strain affects the respiratory tract but also produces damages to other tissues and organs and causes massive hemorrhages.

There are 16 haemaglutinins known and 9 neuraminidases and all can be found in wild birds. This makes the permanent reserve of avian flu as many of the infection viruses cause no harm in normal conditions. Most severe cases of bird flu have been caused by the subtypes H5 and H7 containing a set of basic amino acids.

All low pathogenic virus types have the possibility to become most dangerous after mutations. If earlier it was thought that waterfowls carry the low pathogenic virus, today we know they are able to transmit the most dangerous H5N1 to the visited countries. Highly pathogenic viruses can be transmitted from farm to farm by live birds, contaminated clothing, equipment, feed or cages. Very contagious virus types survive long periods of time in the environment if the temperature is low. H5N1 remains in feces for 35 days at 4 degrees Celsius. At 35 degrees the virus can survive 6 hours in faecal samples.

In cases of high pathogenic strains immediate measures such as quarantine, disinfection, proper disposal of carcasses and rapid culling of the infected birds. Strict biosecurity and sanitary measures oblige large poultry farms to isolate birds and stop the movements of live poultry. The control is easier to be done in big commercial poultry farms than in small private flocks in rural and per urban areas.

If the culling method proves unsuccessful a vaccination campaign can be recommended in high risk areas. The vaccines however must be certified by the National health organization and should be of high quality. Poor quality vaccines lead to dangerous viral mutations and can expose humans to an apparently healthy poultry population.

Backyard flocks expose humans to the infection as birds usually roam free and share water places with wild birds. These situations place humans at risk especially when birds are brought inside the household and in direct contact with children. Most common, house owners tend to sacrifice birds with illness signs and consume the meat with their families instead of alerting the authorities. Many persons especially in the country side hide their poultry during culling operations.

For more information about bird flu or even about bird flu vaccine please review this page http://www.bird-flu-info-center.com/bird-flu-vaccine.htm

Avian Bird Flu - A Possible Pandemic

Avian bird flu, often referred to as Avian influenza, is an infectious disease found usually in birds which is caused by A strains of the influenza virus. This influenza virus occurs naturally in the intestines of wild birds and usually does not cause them sickness.

Avian influenza, or influenza A, is chiefly found in animals, but a virus infection of this type could occur in humans. Although cases of human infection have been on the rise since 1997, risk from this virus to humans is considered mild. In most cases, humans have caught this disease by coming in contact with contaminated surfaces like water bowls and cages, and with infected birds.

Cases of transmission of this virus from an infected human to another human have not been recorded officially. Some human influenza viruses are known to be subtypes of the avian bird flu influenza. Influenza A is continuously changing and it is possible that subtypes may adapt over time to infect and spread among humans.

Migratory waterfowl, most notably wild ducks, are the natural reservoir of avian influenza viruses, which is very contagious among them. When passed on to domestic birds like chicken, ducks and turkeys, the virus can make them very sick and even result in their death.

Infected birds transmit the influenza virus through their saliva, nasal secretion and feces. Domestic birds can contract the sickness when they come in contact with food containers, cage bars, water bowls, floors or with material such as feed and water that has become contaminated with this virus.

There is an extensive number of influenza viruses potentially circulating in bird populations, due to the fact that there are over a dozen subtypes of the influenza virus that infect birds. To date, all outbreaks of avian influenza have been caused by influenza A viruses of subtypes H5 and H7.

The sickness caused by this virus often take two stages. The first is a mild stage which often goes undetected. Symptoms for this stage are ruffled feathers and a drop in egg production. The second stage is where the internal organs of infected birds stop functioning and ultimately results in the death of the bird within 48 hours.

Humans who become infected with influenza A show symptoms similar to human influenza virus, and they may suffer from fever, muscle aches, sore throat, cough and eye infections.

In severe cases, they may have pneumonia and other life-threatening diseases. Death is a possible outcome of the infection.

What can we do to try to prevent a world-wide pandemic? While the efficacy of vaccines is no sure protection, many are trying to get their hands on these, since there is a chance that vaccines might help. The Australian government, not unlike many other governments, have stockpiled vaccines such as Tamiflu to prepare themselves for a possible outbreak of avian influenza, even though the exact virus that causes influenza A in humans has not yet been identified.

Another point to remember is that these viruses often become resistant to vaccines so by the time they are used, the particular influenza strain might not react to the present vaccines.

So I would say that your best bet would be to get a huge immune system boost. Glyconutrients will give you a maximum potential on your immune system, as well as many other health benefits. I have decided to help my family get a good supply of these everyday and have researched the most potent, active, and cost effective form of it.

Spencer Hunt is a wellness consultant from Oregon, who recommends a balanced diet, with high quality vitamins, minerals, and glyconutrients products. Visit the site to see how glyconutrition can help you, http://www.ifoundhealth.com

Understand the Bird Flu Symptoms to Fight Against Bird Flu

One of the latest fears around the World is the outbreak of bird flu. Bird flu has been spreading around countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and China. Now, this virus is rapidly spreading to more countries such as Japan, Korea, and recently, to European countries. It is important for individuals to be aware of this issue and understand the bird flu symptoms in order for one to take measures immediately and prevent the virus from spreading further.

The recorded bird flu symptoms among humans include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle pains and conjunctivitis. Other kinds of complications for people who contracted these illnesses include eye infections and acute respiratory distress. The most fearsome effect of the bird flu on humans are breathing disorders, such as pneumonia, and other severely life threatening complications that may eventually lead to death.

Since this condition is very dangerous, bird flu preparation is the key needed to prevent this life threatening disease from becoming a full-blown flu pandemic. People around the world need to be equipped with the basic awareness of the disease, such as understanding bird flu symptoms and how to prevent it, and should communicate and cooperate in the worldwide pursuit of ending the chain of bird flu victims.

What are the necessary things to do to prevent bird flu infection? How would you know if the person around you is suffering from this rare disease? What symptoms are they showing when one is affected by this condition? What should you do if you suspect a family member has avian flu? These are just among the many questions that you should know of the answer.

Prevention is definitely the most important thing in this battle. There might unfortunately be a very slim chance for cure when you are already infected by the disease. That is why prevention is so important.

The first preventive step in fighting off avian flu is for a person to wear a bird flu mask, especially if he or she will be exposed to fowl for longer than usual, such as those people who are working in a veterinary clinic, pet shops or poultry farms, or one who has already showed some bird flu symptoms. Some bird flu masks are equipped with nano-particles that are proven to be highly effective in eliminating viruses and bacteria. These masks (which are usually disposable) effectively isolate and destroy bacteria and viruses, thus preventing their unwelcome entrance to the human body.

Bird flu infestation has been a big threat to animals and humans as well. We have to give our sustained effort to fight off this influenza, especially since it has been reported to be evolving fast into becoming a highly contagious disease. Be sure to take action immediately, either by called for medical help or isolation till medical help arrives, when you notice bird flu symptoms. In doing so, you can help to prevent this deadly virus from spreading further.

Looking for more info on bird flu? Click for more top and latest info on Bird Flu Symptom or visit http://bird-flu.greenhealthinformation.com

Christopher Wen is the webmaster for greenHealth information site where he provides articles, news, and remedies to current health issues we faced in our everyday life. Check out his blog at http://greenhealthinformation.com

Questions And Answers About Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)

Bird Flu is an infectious disease of birds that can also affect people. It can present mild or severe forms of illness. The only subtype that can cause severe illness to people is Influenza A /H5N1 virus, initially it affects chickens, ducks and other birds by the process of mutation they can become highly pathogenic. Because highly pathogenic viruses can survive for long periods in tissue, water and in the environment, especially when temperatures are low is transmitted very easily in chickens and other birds through direct contact with feces and secretions from infected birds, eggs, feed, water, cages equipment, vehicles and clothing. The virus is excreted orally and in feces 10 days if the bird survives. Domestic birds can get infected when they roam freely or share water supply with other birds. The virus may be transported from farm to farm with contaminated equipment, vehicles, feeds, cages, or clothing, especially shoes. Luckily, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission and through cooked chicken meat. But particles of discharges with the bird avian flu inhaled in market, poultry, surfaces and aerosols are very dangerous.Avian influenza affects chickens and the poultry industry, recombined with the human influenza viruses form a totally new influenza virus to which people do not have protection that spreads in the population and that causes serious illness and death in humans.

Signs and symptoms of bird flu in chickens: Infection determines many symptoms from mild illnesses to highly contagious and severe epidemics. Among them a decline in activity and in egg production, facial swelling and bluish-violet colored combs and wattles, diarrhea, hemorrhages, paralysis, sudden deaths.

Signs and symptoms of bird flu in humans are similar to other influenza viruses: sore throat and cough, fever, muscle weakness and/or pain with complications such as: severe viral pneumonia, respiratory distress syndrome, multi- organ failure.

How to make a differential diagnostic between avian influenza, pneumonia or any other respiratory illness?

A laboratory and epidemiologic confirmation of the bird flu infection is needed and details required such as patient had direct or indirect contact with sick chickens or other birds.Treatments of bird flu are antiviral drugs, but some of these drugs are expensive and supplies are limited.

To prevent recombination of avian with the human influenza virus: is recommended a vaccine used against circulating strains in humans to those exposed to bird flu. Even better is recommended the prevention: to cease importating of live chickens and other poultry products from countries affected with bird flu, avoid contact of poultry with wild birds, proper hand washing and cleaning and disinfection procedures in poultries. Report to authorities any unusual death or illness of chickens other birds or humans. The rest of us should: wash hands with soap and water before and after handling chicken meat. Cook chicken well, not to let chickens roam freely, do not place chickens, ducks and pigs together in one area. Local Government Officials should: apprehend illegal trading of poultry, not allowing chickens to roam freely, correctly informate the community, advise public not to catch, get near or keep in captivity wild birds.

For more information about bird flu or even about symptoms of bird flu please review this page http://www.bird-flu-info-center.com/symptoms-of-bird-flu.htm

Bird Flu In Britain - We Are All Going To Die

Bird flu has reached Britain. One hundred and sixty thousand turkeys have recently been called in Suffolk, England. This was after the local farmers looking after the birds decided that some of the birds looked unwell and called in the inspectors. After appropriate testing it was found that the birds were suffering from the dangerous strain of bird flu virus and that an exclusion zone needed to be kept around the bird habitat and the birds were killed.

Time for panic or at least so it would seem.

The first mention of bird flu, especially in Western countries, is usually met with the blind assumption that we?re all going to die. Nothing, of course, can be further from the truth and facts show that only 160 people have died around the world from bird flu. All of these have been in close proximity to infected birds. Try explaining this to the general population and you will be met with disbelief.

As yet we have not been subjected to true human bird flu. The virus, at the moment, is contained within birds, although it can spread to humans, there is not yet any known human spread. That is to say there is no reason to suspect that humans have passed on the mutated virus to other humans. When it does, it is highly likely that this spread will be quite rampant. And, of course, there will be deaths?there are deaths in normal flu epidemics. But the deaths will be mainly due to general debility or other intercurrent illnesses which have been affected by the flu virus itself.

It is highly likely that the mutated flu virus?the one that travels between humans---will be much less dangerous than the bird flu virus itself.

Visit us or share your opinions at the worlds best homepage or free content resource.Do you want to quit smoking? Visit Smokefree England for further information.

Bird Flu is Still a Threat for Humanity

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza is a disease which affects the birds, especially the poultry, in different extents. The bird flu is produced by subtypes of influenza A virus and it sheds in the wild birds which transmit the virus to the poultry. The H5N1 subtype is considered to be the most pathogenic virus from all the subtypes of influenza A virus.

Chicken, ducks and turkeys get infected if they get in contact with discharges from infected birds, infected water, and infected vehicles. The eggs can also contaminate the incubator if they are from infected hens.

The birds which survive the infection can spread the virus for another period of at least 10 days through secretions, discharges and feathers.

The virus can easily spread in the area if a contaminated bird is left to roam freely; if it drinks water from the place other birds drink, this way contaminating the water. Cars can spread the virus also from one place to another if they are not disinfected properly. Shoes, cages and clothing are also a way of spreading the virus.

Humans can get infected if they get into close contact with ill birds. People who transport poultry, who feed them and clean the place the birds live in, are exposed to the virus if the birds are infected. Eating cooked chicken meal is not dangerous as the virus gets inactivated at heat.

Until now human to human transmission was not encountered.

The governments are concerned that the virus could mutate and achieve the ability of transmitting itself from one person to another. This could lead to a global pandemic and millions of people might die. Also, if this problem is not solved quickly the poultry industry will suffer and the economy of the country will drop.

In chicken the bird flu gives these symptoms: diarrhea, muscle weakness, breathing problems, sudden deaths, facial swelling, and a decline in the egg production.

In humans the symptoms of bird flu are: fever, muscle pain, sore throat and then cough, breathing problems and multi-organ failure in the last stage of the disease.

As there are so many diseases which manifest very much alike with bird flu the doctors must be very careful when diagnosing bird flu. If the patient got into close contact with a sick bird, or handles bird cages, laboratory tests will be done to see exactly if there is a bird flu infection.

There has not been yet discovered an effective vaccine against bird flu virus. The only thing humans can do is take a shot for a human influenza virus to prevent the recombination between the bird flu virus and human flu virus which could form a more threatening virus.

In order to prevent bird flu people must avoid getting into close contact with birds or their discharges; must not buy any living bird illegally as they are not controlled by the veterinaries, must report any suspect death of a bird to the authorities, and must disinfect properly after handling bird products.

For more information about bird flu or even about symptoms of bird flu please review this page http://www.bird-flu-info-center.com/symptoms-of-bird-flu.htm