Bird flu

How bird flu is spread

You can get bird flu by coming into close contact with birds that are infected with the bird flu virus.

You can also get it by touching the poo of an infected bird or an infected bird that has died.

Bird flu is found throughout the world, including the UK, but most infections in humans have happened in parts of Asia and North Africa.

Symptoms of bird flu

Symptoms of bird flu in humans usually start around 4 to 6 days after being in contact with an infected bird.

Symptoms can be mild or severe and include:

• high temperature
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or blocked nose
• wheezing and sneezing
• shortness of breath
• red, irritated eyes (conjunctivitis)

Tests for bird flu

If a doctor thinks you may have bird flu, they’ll take a sample from your throat or nose and send it to a laboratory for testing.

You’ll need to be in isolation until the results come back.

Treatment for bird flu

Antiviral medicines can be used to treat bird flu. If you're very ill, machines can be used to help with your breathing.

People you may have been in close contact with will also be offered testing and treatment.

How to prevent bird flu

To help prevent bird flu, wash your hands with soap and water:

• after handling birds
• if you touch any surfaces that could have bird saliva or poo on them

If you're travelling in parts of the world where there's bird flu, you should avoid:

• visiting live animal markets or poultry farms
• touching bird poo, feathers or nests
• handling or eating undercooked or raw egg, duck or poultry-based dishes