Definition:
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Bird flu is an infection caused by avian influenza viruses. (Source: CDC)
Symptoms of flu/avian flu:
Fever, fatigue, cough, sore throat, eye infections, muscle aches.
Transmission:
Infected birds shed flu virus in their saliva, nasal secretions and feces. Avian flu may have passed to humans by contact with infected poultry or contaminated surfaces. In human-to-human cases, flu viruses spread in respiratory droplets caused by coughing and sneezing. (CDC)
Prevention:
Get a seasonal flu shot, wash your hands, cover your mouth when sneezing, stay home if you are sick, consult your doctor.
Avian flu vaccine:
It is under development but cannot be finalized until the pandemic version of the virus appears.
Cure: A healthy body's immune system can often combat the flu. Antiviral drugs may help. Antibacterials are ineffective because the flu is a virus.
|
|
CBC does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of external sites. Links will open in new window.
