What Is Bird Flu ?

Bird Flu or Avian Flu is caused by a virus that usually only infects birds. There are different types of bird flu. Some only cause mild problems in birds, like less egg production. Others are more dangerous to birds – they spread quickly, cause severe symptoms, and almost always kill the birds.

H5N1 is a type of bird flu dangerous to domestic birds like chickens and turkeys. Wild birds like ducks, geese, and swans can have the virus and spread it to other birds without getting sick themselves.

H5N1 cannot be spread from person to person. A few people who have become sick or died from the H5N1 type of Avian Flu had direct contact with infected birds.

Avian Flu is different from the flu that people get during the winter months.

How can I protect myself ?

You can protect yourself by doing the same things you do to avoid other illnesses.

• Wash your hands with soap and water after going to the bathroom and before

preparing meals or eating.

• If you are around somebody who is sick, don't share that person's food or eating utensils.

• Do not eat raw or uncooked poultry like chicken and turkey. Make sure the temperature of the meat reaches 158°.

• Wash anything that comes in contact with raw meat and its juices.

Why is everyone talking about Avian Flu?

Experts are worried that the H5N1 type of bird flu could change into a new form that can spread from person to person. This has happened in the past and has caused what is known as a pandemic. A pandemic happens when a virus spreads easily and fast from person to person around the world because people have not developed protection against that virus.

There is a lot of talk of Bird Flu in the media to inform people about Avian Flu and what can happen in a pandemic.

Can my pet get it ?

Yes. Pet birds can get bird flu from another bird with the virus. To protect your pet bird you should:

• Keep your bird, its food and water inside the house.

• Not let your bird eat or drink from ponds or other places where wild birds may have flown over.

• Keep your pet bird's cage clean.

• Wash your hands after touching your pet bird, cleaning its cage, or having contact

with the bird's saliva, feces (poop), or urine.