Where Does Bird Flu Get Its Name?

Bird flu, also known as Avian influenza is a flu-like infection caused by birds. This virus is a natural virus among the bird population and is seen in birds all over the world. This virus is carried in the intestines and although very common, the birds themselves do not normally become sick from it. Birds in the wild do not generally become sick because of this virus, but if contracted by chickens, turkeys and ducks, they can become extremely sick to the point of death.

This flu is passed on through a contaminated saliva, nasal secretions and/or feces. Birds who, are at risk can easily become infected with avian influenza if exposed to or come in contact with contaminated excretions or secretions of an infected bird. This does not necessarily mean direct contact. Even if exposed to contaminated surfaces, a bird can be infected with the virus. Although ducks, chickens and turkeys do not normally have contact with birds in the wild, they can be infected through contaminated water, feed, other infected poultry, cages, dirt and/or anything in their environment that has been affected by this virus.

When domesticated birds contract the virus, there are two different routes it can take. Some of them may experience mild symptoms because they have what is called the low pathogenic form of avian influenza. Their symptoms may be as mild as a few ruffled feathers or a decrease in the number of eggs they lay. Often this type of flu is undetected because it has such a mild effect. However in the high pathogenic form, birds become very ill.

This form of the avian flu affects the internal organs and often kills its victim within a couple of days. The high pathogenic form of avian influenza is highly contagious and spreads very quickly through the bird population.

 Bird flu organism -- This disease was discovered at least sixty years ago. However, scientists know a lot more about it today. This disease may pose a threat to humans that could cause worldwide havoc. The concern is that there's a possibility that avian and human influenza could combine and form a very dangerous and highly contagious epidemic.

Bird flu smptoms -- Someone with this flu will have a fever. He or she will also have a cough that will spread the disease to others. Symptoms also include difficulty breathing due to shortness of breath and a sore throat. Patients may also sufer from diarrhea and abdominal pain. Patients' noses and gums may bleed and they may experience muscle aches and vomiting as well as conjunctivitis.