Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, predominantly impacts avian species; however, there have been instances of transmission to humans. Tragically, a recent case resulted in the death of a patient due to severe avian influenza A (H5N1), marking the first recorded fatality from bird flu in the United States. The escalating bird flu outbreak in the country has generated significant alarm. A recent investigation conducted by researchers at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute has highlighted nine mutations in a strain of bird flu identified in an individual in Texas. These mutations enhance the virus's ability to induce illness, allowing it to replicate within the brain and exacerbate the severity of the disease.

Additionally, there were reports of flu cases in India last year, which have contributed to widespread anxiety regarding the possibility of human-to-human transmission and the risk of further fatalities. Health professionals are advocating for vigilance, advising individuals to remain alert and implement necessary precautions to mitigate the spread of this potentially lethal virus. Despite these alarming developments, it is reassuring to note that existing antiviral treatments continue to be effective against this particular strain.

Cases of bird flu in India and around the world

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, encompasses a variety of strains, some of which present a potential threat to human health. Although the majority of bird flu strains do not typically infect humans, specific variants such as H5N1, H7N9, H5N6, and H5N8 have garnered significant attention in recent years. These particular strains are not easily transmitted between humans; however, they have resulted in human infections across multiple countries, with some cases resulting in fatalities. For instance, H5N1, H7N9, and H5N6 have been associated with numerous deaths worldwide, despite the rarity of human-to-human transmission. Recent cases of bird flu have been reported globally.

• In February 2021, Russia reported its first human cases of the H5N8 strain.
• By January 2025, the US had confirmed 66 human cases of H5N1 since 2024, bringing the total to 67 since 2022.
• India reported two cases of avian influenza A(H9N2) in 2024 and one in 2019. In June 2024, a 4-year-old child in West Bengal was infected with H9N2 but made a full recovery.

Avian influenza was first identified in Vietnam in 2003 and has since caused outbreaks and fatalities in Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. As of now, the World Health Organization has recorded more than 950 human cases of the H5N1 strain, with approximately 50% of these cases resulting in death, which raises significant concerns regarding the virus.

What is bird flu?

Avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, is a viral disease that predominantly impacts birds but has the potential to infect humans as well. The H5N1 strain, a subtype of the influenza A virus, represents the most prevalent variant of bird flu in humans. This strain was first detected in humans in 1997 during a poultry outbreak in Hong Kong, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although human infections with H5N1 are infrequent, they can be severe and sometimes fatal. Most cases arise in individuals who have had direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Since 2024, the United States has reported ongoing instances of human bird flu cases.

What are the signs and symptoms of H5N1 bird flu?

H5N1 can cause many symptoms, often similar to those of a typical flu. According to medical reports, common symptoms include:

• High fever
• Headache
• Cough
• Shivers
• Muscle ache
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

In some cases, symptoms may worsen and include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Respiratory distress or failure
• Pneumonia
• Nose and gums bleeding
• Conjunctivitis and pink eye
• Pain in the chest
• Changes in behaviour and thinking
• Seizures (in severe cases)

Severe cases of H5N1 can lead to serious complications, such as respiratory failure and even death. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor to prevent complications.

How is H5N1 bird flu treated?

When a physician performs a test known as the influenza A/H5 (Asian lineage) virus real-time RT-PCR, they will establish a suitable treatment based on the results of the diagnosis. According to infectious disease expert Dr. Charu Dutt Arora, antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir and zanamivir are typically effective in alleviating the severity of the illness. It is important to note that these medications yield the best results when administered within 48 hours of the appearance of symptoms.

How to reduce the risk of bird flu?

Here are some steps you can take to lower your risk of contracting bird flu:

1. Avoid close contact with birds, especially poultry, to prevent infection.

2. Ensure all poultry products, including eggs, are fully cooked before eating.

3. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to maintain good hygiene.

4. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked poultry.

5. If you live near birds, regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that may come into contact with them.

6. Stay informed about the latest news and developments on avian influenza.

7. Report any sick or dead birds to local authorities to help prevent the spread of the virus.

8. Consider getting vaccinated to reduce the risk of H5N1 bird flu.

As H5N1 bird flu continues to spread, it is essential to remain cautious and follow these precautions to avoid complications. If you experience any symptoms, be sure to consult a doctor.

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