What are the main transmission routes of avian influenza?

Generally, avian influenza refers to human infection with avian influenza viruses. The main transmission routes include respiratory transmission, contact transmission, transmission via the digestive tract, fecal-oral transmission, and foodborne transmission. Specific details are as follows:

1. Respiratory transmission

When healthy individuals come into contact with airborne aerosols containing avian influenza virus, the virus may enter the body through the respiratory tract, potentially leading to infection.

2. Contact transmission

The most common route of human infection with avian influenza is direct contact with infected birds, particularly through exposure to their bodily fluids (such as saliva, feces, and tears), or when handling meat and eggs from infected birds.

3. Transmission via the digestive tract

If a person consumes poultry infected with avian influenza virus that has not been thoroughly cooked, the virus may be transmitted through the digestive tract.

4. Fecal-oral transmission

Birds such as ducks, chickens, geese, and other poultry infected with avian influenza virus may excrete the virus in their feces. Infection can occur if people come into contact with contaminated feces.

5. Foodborne transmission

Although avian influenza virus primarily spreads through contact with birds, in certain cases, consuming undercooked meat or eggs from infected birds may also lead to infection.

If a person develops symptoms of illness, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.