Bird Flu, also known as avian influenza is caused by influenza virus affecting birds mainly domestic birds like duck, chicken and turkey. There are three types of influenza- A, B and C.The one that causes bird flu is A type of influenza(H5N1). Virus spreads from bird to bird through thier secreations like nasal, salivary as well as droppings. This strain is contagious, prone to mutations, and can be transmitted to only those humans who are in very close contact with sick poultry in Asian, European, African and Middle east countries, travellers visiting such countries, unwashed poultry eggs( Contaminated surface), raw, uncooked flesh of such birds, touching an infected bird, etc.Healthcare workers and care takers with infected patients are also at high risk. This infection is fatal in human beings. It can also result in epidemic or even pandemic.

Clinical features of the disease

In birds,there are two forms of symptoms, one which are less pathogenic like drop in egg production, ruffeled feathers, lathargic, etc. More severe symptoms include loss of appetite, swelling of limbs and combs, feather discoloration, nasal discharge, cough, diarrhoea and sudden death.Mortality rate can reach from 90% to 100% within 48hrs.

In Humans, the disease caused by H5N1 virus is usually aggressive with rapid deteoration and high fatality rate. Symptoms such as cough, diarrhea,abdominal pain, chest pain, breathing difficulty due to weakness of pectorals and intercoastal muscles, high grade fever usualy above 101 degree F, headache in radiating pattern usually to occiputs. malaise, muscular pains mainly back, antigravity muscles, cold and sore throat occur in infected human beings. Some people also have nausea, vomiting and eye infections. It mainly affects the respiratory tract, leading to serious complications like pneumonia.Respiratory distress, hoarse voice and crackling sound on inhallation are common symptoms when the disease progresses. Sputum production becomes variable and blood strained. Bird flu can progress to very severe form of pneumonia, known as Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) which is often fatal.

In case of doubt, the doctor auscultates the chest of the patient to detect any abnormal sounds present in chest, like wheeze or crepts. This alone does not confirms bird flu. In case of clinical correlation with other symptoms like body pains, lack of energy, vomitting, etc. After clinical confirmation, patients undergoes lab tests like chest X-ray, nasopharyngeal culture, and some blood tests to confirm the presence of influenza virus.In advanced stages, other tests on various organs are also performed to test the presence of Virus and their effect on these organs.In later stages of the disease, there is multiple organ failure which eventually leads to death. The most common findings in X-ray with patients suffering from bird flu were multifocal consolidations, cavities in lung tissues, enlarged lymph nodes and space surrounding the lungs.

 Prevention and treatment

Since the flu passes through the mucous membranes of ourbody like nose, throat, eyes. As a precaution, we must wear glasses, cover our mouth and nose while in contact with a patient suffering from flu. Even ears must be plugged with cotton. Use hand sanetizers, gloves, etc. Even sanatization of floors is also important.For treating bird flu, a commonly used anti viral medication is used called osaltamivir and zanamivir. These are preventive medicines as well. Besides alopathic medication, alternative medication is also used, Herbal and homeopathic treatment. Herbal improves immunity, heomopathic accelerates natural healing to speed up the recovery.

Other than this, symptomatic treatment is recommended. For cold and chest congestion, steam inhallation is recommended. Use of disposable tissues is recommended in such cases.Cough suppressants, decongestants and antihistamines can be used. Plenty of fluids and electrolytes should be consumed. For fever, over the counter medication should be taken. All in all, if bird flu symptoms are visible, consulting a doctor is advisable instead of self medication and hoem remedies since the disease is fatal in nature.