The following is a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about bird flu.

    1. What is bird flu?

    Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a type of flu caused by influenza A viruses that usually infect birds. Rarely, but occasionally, these viruses can transmit from birds to humans, causing serious illness.

    2. How can you get infected with bird flu?

    Most often, people become infected with bird flu through direct contact with infected birds or their secretions. This can happen at bird markets or poultry farms, for example. Rarely, the virus is transmitted from person to person.

    3. What are the symptoms of bird flu?

    Symptoms of bird flu can vary depending on the strain of the virus, but often include fever, cough, muscle aches, sore throat and general weakness. In some cases, severe symptoms such as pneumonia and multi-organ failure can occur.

    4. Is there a vaccine against bird flu?

    There are currently no avian influenza vaccines available for the general public. However, there are vaccines for poultry that are used in some countries as part of an avian flu management strategy.

    5. How can bird flu be prevented?

    Preventing avian influenza includes practices such as avoiding contact with sick birds, maintaining good personal hygiene, using proper bio-insurance practices on poultry farms, and tracking and responding to avian influenza outbreaks.

    6. Is bird flu the same as seasonal flu?

    Avian influenza and seasonal influenza are caused by different influenza viruses and have different characteristics. Seasonal flu is a common disease that infects millions of people around the world each year, while avian flu is rarer but usually causes more serious illness.

Feel free to ask additional questions about bird flu. This FAQ will be updated regularly to provide the most current and accurate information. Remember, you should always consult your doctor or other appropriate health care professional for specific health concerns.