Transmission routes of avian influenza

Avian influenza spreads through various routes, so what are the transmission pathways of avian influenza?

Transmission Routes of Avian Influenza

The virus primarily spreads via the respiratory tract, but it can also be transmitted through close contact with infected birds—including sick or dead chickens, ducks, geese, other poultry, wild birds, and migratory birds—as well as their secretions, excretions, and water contaminated by the virus. Currently, there is no clear evidence indicating human-to-human transmission. During an avian influenza outbreak, individuals who have visited affected areas within one week prior to symptom onset, had direct exposure to sick or dead birds, come into contact with their secretions or excretions, or had close contact with confirmed human cases should be closely monitored for symptoms and isolated if necessary.

During an avian influenza outbreak, preventive measures must be implemented, including controlling the source of infection, cutting off transmission routes, and protecting susceptible populations. To control the source of infection, all poultry in farms affected by avian influenza must be culled and buried on-site. Strict controls are also required to prevent the spread of secretions and excretions from infected animals into water sources, as humans drinking water contaminated with the virus may become infected. Cutting off transmission routes means avoiding contact with birds that are known to be infected with avian influenza.

Additionally, people should avoid visiting poultry farms and slaughterhouses, refrain from consuming live poultry, and high-risk contacts may consider using oseltamivir for prophylaxis. We hope this article has been helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!