Bird flu: What threat to humans?
There are lots of different types of bird flu and most are harmless to people. Some can potentially spread from birds to people if there is prolonged and close contact.
How do people get it?
The biggest risk comes from prolonged and close contact with infected birds. . Bird flu cannot usually be passed from human to human. Scientists are concerned that the virus may one day mutate(变异) and acquire the ability to spread in people.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms in humans are similar to those of other types of flu: a temperature, cough, headache, chills, aching muscles and a runny or blocked nose and sneezing. , and usually about three to five days after coming into contact with the virus.
What's the treatment?
If it's thought that you might have symptoms of bird flu, you'll be advised to stay at home, or you'll be cared for in hospital in isolation from other patients. Doctors can prescribe antiviral medicines to help prevent complications.
?
You can reduce your risk of infection by washing your hands regularly (particularly after going to the toilet and before handling food) and using a tissue when you need to cough or sneeze (and turning away from others if they are coughing/sneezing).
You can feed wild ducks and birds, but make sure you wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. Do not go near sick or dead birds.
Can I still eat chicken?
. Poultry and eggs can be safely eaten as long as they are handled hygienically and cooked thoroughly.
A. How can we avoid it
B. How can we prevent the spread of it
C. These symptoms can come on suddenly
D. You are advised to consult doctors when not feeling yourself
E. Painkillers such as paracetamol can also help with the symptoms
F. The virus is easily destroyed by cooking so there is no reason to worry
G. This means farmers who need to handle poultry are more likely to catch it
