The Avian Influenza Virus
Posted on January 10, 2008 - Filed Under Health and Fitness | Leave a Comment
Avian Influenza: A Great Concern - Avian influenza first occurred in Italy, but has spread around the world. It is an infectious disease caused by strains of the influenza virus. Avian influenza viruses are easily transported from farm to farm even to new geographical areas by migratory birds and by contaminated people, vehicles, equipment, feed, and cages. Viruses survive for quite long in both low and high temperatures. The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) recommends vaccination against outbreaks. Control measures are for all infected or exposed birds, proper disposal of carcasses, quarantining, rigorous disinfection of farms, and the implementation of strict sanitary or biosecurity measures. Human avian influenza victims usually develop fever, sore throat, cough, severe respiratory distress and viral pneumonia. The people which are affected are of all ages in different states of health. There are rapid tests for diagnosing all influenza strains. Antiviral drugs have limitations, although they are effective in the treatment and prevention of influenza A virus strains. If a new virus subtype occurs, it takes some time to produce a new vaccine that is efficient.
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