Do I Have Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)?

As far as you know, have you been in contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with avian influenza viruses?

Have you visited the markets where live birds are sold, or do you work as a poultry farmer?

Have you traveled to areas where cases of bird flu have been reported?

Do you cough?

Do you have a fever (over 100.4°F or 38°C)?

Do you have a sore throat?

Doo you have muscle or body aches?

Do you have nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting?

Do you have respiratory difficulties (shortness of breath, difficulty breathing)?

Do you have headache or malaise?

Do you have runny or stuffy nose?

Do you have eye redness (or conjunctivitis)?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have bird flu. Bird flu is an infectious disease that is also known as avian influenza. Bird flu is caused by the avian influenza type A viruses. The natural hosts of these viruses are wild aquatic birds such as wild ducks, geese, swans, gulls, shorebirds and terns. Bird flu can spread to domestic poultry, other birds and humans. Bird flu is rare in humans, and most infected people are those who have been in close contact with an infected bird (dead or alive). Infected birds carry the virus in their saliva, mucous and feces.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have bird flu. Bird flu is a contagious disease caused by a virus. Avian influenza infections are not that common, and people primarily become infected through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces. Birds infected with the avian influenza virus can releases the virus through feces and saliva for 10 days. It is also possible to become infected by breathing in droplets or dust that contains the avian influenza virus. The bird flu symptoms in humans can range from mild to severe. A diagnosis is based on a specific test designed to identify avian influenza.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have bird flu. Bird flu is a contagious viral infection that spreads from infected birds to people. The avian influenza virus lives in saliva, mucous and feces of an infected bird. People who work with poultry, and those who touch infected birds, or kill and preparing infected poultry for cooking, have increased risk of contracting bird flu. The symptoms of bird flu are similar to a seasonal flu. Pregnant women, people with a weakened immune system and adults older than 65 years may have more severe symptoms than others. Treatment includes antiviral medications.