H5N1 Avian Influenza impacts on our world

Bird and animal diseases have a great impact on health and economics from the life of the animals and birds to humans and the entire industry of food production.

 H5N1 Avian Influenza, otherwise known as “bird flu,” is one of those diseases that is highly contagious and can decimate poultry operations and endanger wildlife and mammals.

At this time the virus is a very low risk to humans, however between 2003 and 2024, there were 950 reported cases in humans with a mortality rate of 50% according to the CDC.

No deaths have been reported in the United States. 

Here are some things that can be done to limit the impact of the H5N1 virus:

• Avoid dead or dying birds or animals
• If dead birds are found, they should be reported to the Health Department or the Department of Natural Resources for testing and proper disposal
• Always wear rubber gloves when removing a bird
• Take precautions by cleaning clothing and shoes after coming in contact with dead birds or any dead animal
• N95 masks while handling the fowl or in areas where there are sick birds is also a very good idea

The virus can be spread through mucus, saliva, feces, raw milk and other means making it very transmittable to not only domestic birds and migratory fowl like geese and ducks but mammals as well like raccoons, cattle and pigs.

This can affect the economy and nature in general. Human symptoms may include muscle aches, coughing, chills, runny nose, headache and fatigue. 

The information in this article is not to cause panic or fear but it is to give important facts to citizens on what to look for and how to use precautions to stay safe and healthy by limiting contact with diseased birds and wildlife.