WHAT IS IT?

This is a serious and contagious disease caused by a specific type of influenza virus, which mainly affects wild birds, although domestic birds are also vulnerable. This is a virus with a great capacity to adapt to different environments by changing (mutating). The virus lodges in the intestines of birds and is released through saliva, nasal secretions and feces. Infection occurs when there is direct contact with these products or with the surfaces on which they are deposited, with water being one of the main means of transmission between birds.

HOW CAN IT BE PREVENTED AND TREATED?

Drugs with antiviral action are available, which are also used to deal with the symptoms of ordinary human flu, but more research is needed into their action on this virus. However, these drugs are most effective when used in the early stages of infection (up to 48 hours). If justified, preventive treatment will also be prescribed for the close relatives of the infected person. Doctors are responsible for prescribing them if there is a strong suspicion or confirmation of H5N1 infection. The aim is to avoid a potential loss of efficacy due to inappropriate use (risk of antiviral resistance).

HOW IS IT TRANSMITTED TO HUMANS?

The risk of transmission of the avian influenza virus to humans is, for the time being, very low. The greatest danger of infection comes from direct, unprotected contact (mask, gloves and boots) with sick birds or contaminated surfaces, such as dustbins, water tanks or food. Poor hygiene conditions in the spaces where birds are kept increase the possibility of infection. 

WHAT IS THE RISK OF A PANDEMIC?

Avian flu began in Asia and has since spread to the Middle East. Recently, it has entered Europe through the countries bordering Asia. Millions of birds have already been slaughtered and many people have been infected, with a mortality rate of around 50%. Even so, there is a risk of the disease being declared worldwide - a pandemic - if the virus gains the ability to be transmitted quickly from one person to another, and because humans have no defenses against this virus, which usually only infects birds.

BUT DOESN'T EATING POULTRY POSE ANY HEALTH RISKS?

For greater safety, however, some precautions should be taken: cook the meat very well so that no pink surfaces remain, and the eggs so that the yolk remains solid, and avoid contact between liquids from the meat and products eaten raw. In humans, bird flu can cause anything from symptoms similar to those of ordinary human flu, such as fever, cough, sore throat or muscle pain, to eye infections and pneumonia. In the most serious cases, severe respiratory disease and other life-threatening complications can develop. 

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THOSE TRAVELING TO COUNTRIES AT RISK: 

• Get vaccinated against the common cold (two weeks before your trip);
• Avoid contact with birds or surfaces that may be contaminated (such as market stalls);
• Do not eat meat and meat products or undercooked eggs, or raw food 
• Wash your hands frequently;
• Watch out for fever or respiratory symptoms on your return. 

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