The avian influenza outbreak has, according to the Mayo Clinic, killed millions of birds (both domestic and wild), and has led to a fairly low number of human deaths. In general, the people that have become infected have had close contact with infected birds, but human-to-human transmission is still possible. Although bird flu has not been a serious risk to human health so far, there is the possibility for the virus to mutate and infect humans more easily, leading to a potentially deadly pandemic. By following a few easy steps, you can lower your risk of contracting the avian flu.
Step 1
Avoid close contact with birds or swine. Close contact with birds or bird feces is thought to be one way in which avian influenza can be transmitted to humans. Because swine are able to contract both avian and human diseases, they are also considered to be a potential breeding site for avian influenza.
Step 2
Avoid eating raw eggs or undercooked poultry. Eggshells are often contaminated with bird droppings, and could be a way for the virus to be spread to humans. Although it is not known if the virus can be spread via undercooked poultry (as cooking kills the virus), the Mayo Clinic still recommends that all poultry products be properly cooked.
Step 3
Wash your hands frequently. Even if you avoid contact with birds, human-to-human transmission is still a possibility. Washing your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (or for fifteen to thirty seconds using soap and hot water) can help prevent spread of the disease.
Step 4
Consider wearing gloves and a mask. This is especially important if you are dealing with sick people who may have contracted the avian flu. These measures are particularly helpful to avoid spreading other germs if you work in a medical setting.
Step 5
Stay healthy. Keeping yourself in good health (which includes getting enough rest, avoiding alcohol and tobacco use, and eating a well-balanced diet) keeps your immune system strong, which makes you more likely to fight off the avian flu, as well as other infections.
Things You'll Need
- Alcohol based hand sanitizer
- Soap and water
- Gloves
- Mask
