Can humans with avian influenza transmit the infection to others?

In real life, there are numerous infectious diseases—both seasonal influenza and avian influenza fall into this category of highly contagious illnesses. But can humans transmit avian influenza to others?

Can humans transmit avian influenza to others?

Avian influenza is transmissible to humans. Its causative agent is a virus that is highly infectious among birds. Major subtypes include H5N1, H7N2, H7N3, H7N7, H9N2, H10N7, and H7N9. Primary sources of infection include infected birds, birds carrying the avian influenza virus, human patients, or other animals potentially harboring the virus.

Currently, the exact transmission routes of avian influenza remain incompletely understood. Direct transmission from birds to humans is the primary mode; however, limited human-to-human transmission cannot be ruled out. Potential transmission routes also include direct contact with virus-contaminated surfaces or materials (e.g., poultry feces), as well as inhalation of infectious respiratory secretions or excreta. Therefore, it is essential in daily life to adopt sound hygiene practices—frequent handwashing, attention to food safety, avoidance of untreated water, and thorough cooking of meat and eggs before consumption.

Typical symptoms resemble those of influenza, including fever, cough, scant sputum production, headache, and generalized malaise. In severe cases, disease progression is rapid, manifesting as severe pneumonia, with persistent high fever (>39°C). Patients may experience dyspnea, hemoptysis, and productive cough; acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) can develop rapidly. We hope this information proves helpful to you.