What is Avian Influenza?
Avian influenza, also called bird flu, is caused by bird flu viruses (mainly H5N1). People can get it from close contact with sick birds. The illness can be mild or very serious. While it rarely spreads between people, there is a small risk of the virus changing and causing larger outbreaks.
If you suspect bird flu or want advice on your symptoms, you can book a consultation with Hope Plus to speak directly with a healthcare provider and get personalised guidance.
Causes
- Bird flu viruses (Type A), usually spread through direct contact with sick birds or their droppings
Symptoms
- Red or irritated eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches
- Sometimes diarrhea or neurological symptoms
- Severe cases can cause breathing difficulties similar to SARS
How it is diagnosed
- Laboratory tests on blood or nose swabs to check for the virus
- Special labs are needed for accurate testing
How it is treated
If hospitalisation is needed:
- Patient is admitted and isolated
- Oxygen is given if necessary, but high-flow devices are avoided
- Fever is treated with paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Antiviral medicine Oseltamivir is given if symptoms have been present for 2 days or less
Dosage examples:
- Adults & children ≥13 years: 75 mg twice daily for 5 days
- Children 1–40 kg: weight-based doses for 5 days
If hospitalisation is not needed:
- Stay at home and follow strict hygiene: wash hands, wear a mask, and limit contact with others
- Seek medical care immediately if symptoms worsen
Preventive medicine (prophylaxis)
- Close contacts of sick birds: Oseltamivir 75 mg daily for 7 days
- Community contacts: 75 mg daily up to 6 weeks
Control and Prevention
- Keep patients isolated in single rooms
- Health workers must wear protective clothing, masks, gloves, and face shields
- Limit visitors and follow strict hygiene
- Children should stay home from school until fully recovered
- Monitor body temperature regularly
