What happens to the body when you are affected by bird flu?

This week, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that an infection was detected in a four-year-old child in West Bengal (Pa)

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can occasionally spread to humans through close contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated by their saliva, mucus or feces. 

Every year, we hear about hundreds of cases of this where the bird flu virus manages to jump species and infect a human host. It then triggers a severe and potentially life threatening response in the body. 

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Health & Wellness

NewsLifestyleLife-styleWhat happens to the body when you are affected by bird flu?

What happens to the body when you are affected by bird flu?

Bird flu, caused by strains such as H5N1, presents with symptoms that can be more severe than those of the common flu, says Dr Jagadish J Hiremath, a public health expert

By: Lifestyle Desk

New Delhi | June 14, 2024 13:15 ISTNewsguard

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bird flu

This week, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that an infection was detected in a four-year-old child in West Bengal (AP)

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Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can occasionally spread to humans through close contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated by their saliva, mucus or feces. 

Every year, we hear about hundreds of cases of this where the bird flu virus manages to jump species and infect a human host. It then triggers a severe and potentially life-threatening response in the body. 

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This week, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that an infection was detected in a four-year-old child in West Bengal, caused by the H9N2 virus. This is the second case caused by the same strain of virus in India. 

Bird flu can have a significant impact on public health, leading to long-term health consequences for those affected. Dr Jagadish J Hiremath, a public health expert, explains the effects of bird flu on the human body.

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Initial symptoms of bird flu in humans

Bird flu, caused by strains such as H5N1, presents with symptoms that can be more severe than those of the common flu, says Dr Hiremath. “Initial symptoms include high fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. Unique to bird flu, you may also experience eye infections (conjunctivitis), pneumonia, severe respiratory distress, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. These additional gastrointestinal symptoms help differentiate bird flu from the seasonal flu.”

Effects on the respiratory system and potential complications

bird flu primarily impacts the respiratory system Dr hire math asserts. The virus attacks the respiratory tract, leading to severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, and a high risk of pneumonia. Common complications include:

– Pneumonia: A severe lung infection that can be life threatening.