Bird flu outbreak in India: Know the causes, symptoms, and preventive tips to avoid the infection

Bird flu is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can sometimes spread to humans. The H5N1 strain is the most common in human cases and is known to cause severe illness.

Bird flu scare has been sounded across various states. According to reports, the Animal Husbandry Department in Maharashtra has culled over 7000 poultry birds and destroyed over 2,000 eggs in the state. The state has reported cases from seven epicentres, from the districts of Latur, Nanded, Nagpur, Thane, Raigad, and Chandrapur. The Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, too, has reported sudden deaths of chickens and health officials have identified the cause as the H5N1 virus.

A recent case in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, has once again brought to light the risks of bird flu, as authorities confirmed infections in two shops and a household, affecting chickens and a cat. Additionally, the entire municipal corporation area and Linga village have been placed under surveillance. To contain the outbreak, the collector has ordered the closure of all chicken shops and poultry farms in affected areas. The sale and transport of poultry products are strictly banned.

Alongside, the infected chickens and eggs are to be disposed of safely under official supervision. Pet owners are advised to isolate sick animals and report cases to authorities. Residents are urged to avoid consuming poultry or feeding raw poultry to pets until further notice.

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What is Bird flu: Causes, symptoms and preventive measures

Bird flu is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can sometimes spread to humans. The H5N1 strain is the most common in human cases and is known to cause severe illness.

The virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces, says Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care & Pulmonology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram. “Bird flu symptoms can initially resemble regular flu but often become more severe. Common signs include high fever, cough, sore throat, muscle pain, and difficulty breathing. In serious cases, it may lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, or even death. The symptoms usually appear 2–10 days after exposure,” he says.

To reduce the risk, he suggests, avoiding direct contact with infected birds is important. "Proper hygiene, including frequent handwashing and disinfecting surfaces, plays a key role in prevention," advises Dr Grover. Poultry workers and bird handlers should wear protective gear, and consuming only well-cooked poultry and eggs can further minimise the risk. "While the flu vaccine doesn’t prevent bird flu, it can reduce the severity of symptoms in case of infection," he adds.

Also read | Bird flu in India | Influenza and poultry consumption: Everything you need to know

Although there is no specific treatment for bird flu, early medical intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. "Supportive care, such as staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and hospitalization in severe cases, is essential," Dr Grover emphasises. Seeking timely medical attention remains critical in ensuring better outcomes.

To reduce the risk of infection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following preventive measures:

Avoid contact with infected animals: Whenever possible, avoid contact with sick or dead animals, particularly wild birds and poultry.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE): People with direct or close contact with wild birds or sick or dead poultry should wear recommended PPE.

Practice good hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling birds or their environments.

Cook poultry products thoroughly: Ensure that all poultry and eggs are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential viruses.

Monitor health: If you develop symptoms after exposure to potentially infected birds, seek medical attention promptly.

By adhering to these guidelines, people can help prevent the spread of bird flu and protect both animal and human health.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.