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Protecting Against Bird Flu

a person washing their hands

Health & Wellness

By: Jennifer Marichal

Protecting Against Bird Flu: Tips for Staying Healthy

Bird flu sounds like the plot of a scary movie, but don’t worry. You can take steps to stay safe and healthy during the recent outbreaks in the U.S.

Bird flu’s caused by viruses that primarily affect birds, but can sometimes infect humans. Here’s what you need to know about preventing its spread and safeguarding your family.

Why should I care about bird flu?

The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain spreads quickly among birds, and while it rarely infects humans, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re often around birds or live near a poultry farm, knowing the basics can help you stay ahead of the game.

Outbreaks have recently been reported in cows, adding another layer of concern. To address this, the FDA has initiated testing of raw milk samples from dairy farms and transport areas. While pasteurization kills viruses, it’s important to avoid drinking raw milk or eating unpasteurized cheeses right now, as they could be infected.

What are bird flu symptoms?

Bird flu symptoms are similar to seasonal flu, but may get worse fast. Watch out for:

  • Fever and chills
  • Cough and sore throat
  • Muscle aches
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
  • In severe cases, pneumonia or respiratory failure

If you experience these symptoms and have been exposed to birds, raw dairy products, or poultry farms, get medical attention immediately. Early treatment with antiviral medicine can reduce the severity of the illness.

Prevention 101: What You Can Do

  • Hands off: Sick or dead birds? No touching! Call the experts instead.
  • Cook it right: No one likes dry chicken, but make sure it’s cooked thoroughly. The same goes for eggs, no raw eggs or runny yolks for now.
  • Say no to raw milk: Drinking raw milk or eating unpasteurized cheeses isn’t worth the risk during this outbreak. Stick to pasteurized products to stay safe.
  • Wash those hands: After handling birds or visiting a farm, wash your hands with soap and water right away.
  • Stay informed: Follow updates from trusted sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or your local health department, for any outbreak alerts or new recommendations.
  • Get vaccinated: While seasonal flu vaccines aren’t specific to bird flu, they can help protect your overall health and reduce the risk of co-infections.

Help Out Our Feathered Friends

Farmers and bird owners can take additional steps to prevent the spread of bird flu:

  • Secure poultry housing: Minimize contact between domestic birds and wild birds.
  • Disinfect equipment: Regularly clean and sanitize tools, clothing, and vehicles used near poultry.
  • Report symptoms: Contact agricultural authorities if birds are showing signs of illness, such as sudden death, fatigue, or reduced egg production.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Working together can protect our health, keep our food supply safe, and give bird flu the boot. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, a farmer, or just someone who loves chicken nuggets, we all have a role to play.

Stay safe, stay informed, and remember – a little prevention goes a long way!