ABC Guide Index

Select a topicIntroductionAccident and injuryAltitude sicknessAvian influenzaChickenpoxCholeraCoughs and coldsDeep vein thrombosis (DVT)Dengue feverDiphtheriaDrinking safelyEating safelyFirst aid kitFood poisoningGastroenteritisHepatitis AHepatitis BHepatitis CHIV / AIDSInfluenzaInsect avoidanceJapanese encephalitisJet lagLyme diseaseMalariaMeaslesMeningococcal diseaseMotion sicknessPoliomyelitisRabiesSARSSchistosomiasisSexually transmitted infectionsTetanusTraveller's diarrhoeaTuberculosisTyphoid feverWest Nile feverYellow Fever

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is caused by influenza viruses that mainly infect birds and, less commonly, pigs. Although human infection with Avian flu is rare, there have been several small outbreaks reported since 1997, usually in Asia. Infected individuals may develop a range of symptoms from severe flu-like symptoms (fever, sore throat and cough) to pneumonia and other severe and life-threatening complications. ⁵

Transmission^5,6
Close contact with live infected poultry is the primary source of human infection. Person-to person transmission is rare.

Geographical distribution⁵
Worldwide. The most recent outbreaks have occurred in Asia .

Risk for travellers⁶
Very low. Avian influenza viruses usually do not infect humans.

Precautions and prevention⁶
Travellers to areas where avian influenza virus is known to circulate are advised to follow these precautions:

• Simple infection control techniques, such as washing hands, using either soap and water or waterless, alcohol-based hand rubs, may help prevent the spread of the disease.
• Avoid settings where avian influenza can be transmitted, such as bird markets and poultry yards.
• Cook all food from poultry thoroughly, including eggs. Adequate heating destroys influenza viruses.

(Please read the Disclaimer before using the ABC Guide to Travel Health).

Back to ABC Guide Index

Back to top