Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a form of the flu originating from a common virus found in birds. Humans can be infected with bird flu and any infection will typically turn out to be fatal. More than half the people affected by bird flu will die, states Mayo Clinic. Experts feel that the primary danger of bird flu is its ability to mutate into a more easily transferable form, causing a pandemic outbreak.
Flu Symptoms
Similar to the common flu, those affected with bird flu may experience a runny nose, fever greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit, cough or sore throat, nausea with or without vomiting, diarrhea and muscle aches. These symptoms are typically treated conventionally. However, if symptoms do not subside within a week, you should notify your doctor.
Fatigue & Malaise
Bird flu sufferers may experience extreme fatigue often sleeping many hours of the day. It can be difficult for them to stay awake and they may feel extremely drowsy when awake. This is due to the affect that the virus has on the autoimmune system. It's important to get adequate rest however if you find it difficult to wake up or stay awake, you should notify your doctor. Malaise is a general feeling of discomfort, illness or lack of well-being. Malaise typically occurs simultaneously with fatigue and commonly occurs with autoimmune diseases.
Conjunctivits
In some cases, patients develop conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the eye, also known as pink eye, that causes redness, soreness and crusting. Although conjunctivitis does not always occur in patients with bird flu. If it is a coexisting symptom with the flu symptoms, it can be a direct indicator of a bird flu infection.
