Avian Influenza: What You Need to Know
Don't Panic: Seasonal Flu Shots Won't Prevent Bird Flu, but They Can Help
As concerns grow over the spread of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, it's important to stay informed about the virus and take necessary precautions.
The Lowdown on Bird Flu
Bird flu is a viral infection that primarily affects birds. However, in rare cases, it can spread to humans. As of now, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of bird flu. The virus is typically spread through contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms of bird flu in humans can range from mild to severe and may include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, bird flu can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, and even death.
Vaccination: A Partial Shield
While seasonal flu vaccinations will not prevent infection with bird flu viruses, they can significantly reduce the risk of getting sick with the seasonal flu. This is important because co-infection with bird flu and seasonal flu can worsen the severity of both illnesses.
Therefore, it's recommended that individuals get vaccinated against the seasonal flu to minimize their overall risk of respiratory illness during the upcoming flu season.
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