The H5N1 Bird Flu Strain

The H5N1 bird flu strain is a form of Avian influenza. H5N1 is also referred to as influenza A (H5N1) virus and is extremely contagious among birds. The H5N1 flu strain is not only contagious among birds but can also be fatal. This strain of the bird flu does not normally pose a risk to humans but there have been cases of the H5N1 strain reported in humans. The only way this virus could be contracted by humans is through direct contact with contaminated objects or infected birds, usually poultry.

Of the many Avian flu viruses, the H5N1 strain has caused the most problems in humans. There have been instances where individuals have become very ill due to it. Some people have died after being infected by this particular strain of the Avian flu. There are likely people who’ve been mildly affected by the H5N1 strain but perhaps not diagnosed or reported as having the disease. Because this particular bird flu strain doesn’t normally infect humans, the H5N1 virus is quite difficult to pass from one individual to another.

Scientists say that since flu viruses have the potential to change, in the future the H5N1 bird flu strain may put people at risk and may have the potential to be contagious among humans. Right now, in the present, humans are not targeted for this disease though.

In the past some people who’ve been infected have been treated with drugs which are sometimes prescribed for typical influenza. However, with ongoing research hopefully one day in the future scientists will be able to create a vaccine for the H5N1 bird flu strain. If looking for information on this particular form of Avian flu, the Internet is a great source with details on H5N1 outbreaks and updates regarding this virus. Also, on this site you'll find a number of articles about this disease that will provide helpful information.

Kuwait airport bird flu -- In 2007 a father caused quite a stir when he claimed his child might have this disease. The customs officials immediately reported this to the authorities. Then the father and child were taken a health center.

Who do bird flu effect? -- Although people usually don't catch this disease, they can become infected with the virus and die from it. In 1997 eighteen people in Hong Kong were infected and six of them died. People can catch the disease through direct contact with sick birds or their immissions.

How humans get bird flu -- Avian viruses generally don't affect humans, but in 1997, an outbreak of this disease in Hong Kong infected 18 people, six of whom died. Since then, human cases of this disease have been reported in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Most were traced to contact with infected poultry or surfaces contaminated by sick birds. The source of this flu is infected waterfowl that emit the virus in their secretions. Then poultry can become infected. People can catch the disease just by touching a sick bird.

Fact sheet on bird flu -- You can do your own research by searching the internet to find about this disease and how migratory birds can spread the disease. You can also learn which countries have been affected. You can also research the history of this disease and read about cases of this disease.

Global issues- bird flu -- There is a demand for an effective vaccine for this disease, but health experts are skeptical about providing enough of it in time if needed.

How is bird flu spread? There's a very low risk for most people in catching this disease since this type of virus doesn't usually attack people. However, some people have become infected and have even died from it since 1997. Most people have become infected by contacting diseased poultry.

Bird flu hepa filter -- In areas where this disease is a concern, you can help protect yourself by purchasing a 4-stage air purifier. Apparently TRACS alone among other air purifiers has UV light as part of its system which kill bacteria, mold and viruses. Hospitals use this type of technology to help prevent the spread of diseases.

Bird flu in raptors -- In 2004 two smuggled Crested Hawk Eagles from Thailand were seized at the Brussels International Airport. However, they showed no signs of the disease when clinically examined.