What are the transmission routes of avian influenza?

Avian influenza is a relatively common disease in daily life. This condition is contagious and requires early detection and prompt treatment. What are the transmission routes of avian influenza?

What Are the Transmission Routes of Avian Influenza?

Avian influenza can spread through multiple pathways, including respiratory transmission, gastrointestinal transmission, direct contact transmission, aerosol transmission, and mucosal transmission. Clinically, avian influenza refers to an acute respiratory illness caused by influenza virus infection, specifically belonging to Influenza A viruses. It can not only cause outbreaks in poultry but also lead to human infections. Among poultry, chickens are primarily affected—previously known as "fowl plague"—and infection often results in death. In humans, avian influenza may present symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and headache, and can progress to pneumonia with a high mortality rate.

Avian influenza typically refers to the H7N9 subtype of influenza virus, which tends to occur seasonally each year during winter and spring. The incubation period for H7N9 cases is usually around seven days, though it may extend up to ten days. Pneumonia is the primary clinical manifestation; patients may develop fever, cough, and sputum production, along with symptoms such as headache, muscle pain, diarrhea, or vomiting. In severe cases, the disease progresses rapidly, with severe pneumonia developing within 3–7 days after onset. Body temperature often remains above 39°C, accompanied by difficulty breathing and blood-tinged sputum.

The most important risk factor for human infection with the H7N9 virus is direct or indirect exposure to infected live poultry or environments contaminated by virus-carrying birds. We hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and a happy life!