Bird Flu may become a serious problem. In the interim, all the traveller can do is avoid live animal markets and eat only well cooked chicken. It is not considered necessary to take medication to treat this at this time as no traveller has EVER got Bird Flu.
BIRD FLU FACT SHEET
The “Bird Flu” is otherwise known as Avian Influenza and affects domestic chickens and duck as well as many species of migratory birds.
The only way the virus can spread is through contact with chickens and eggshells as the virus is found in the droppings of infected birds.
To avoid exposure to the Avian Influenza virus follow these guidelines:
• Avoid live animal/poultry markets
• Only eat well cooked chicken
• Do not touch bird droppings (manure)
• Wash hands regularly and keep up personal hygiene
• Avoid swimming in water bodies where wild, domestic birds gather
At this stage there is no vaccine to prevent people from catching Avian Influenza virus, but research is underway for its development and release in 2007-2008.
The ‘Tamiflu’ antiviral which has been highly publicised on the news as a vaccine is actually a treatment option for people who have contracted the Avian Influenza virus. Indiscriminate use of this product will result ion it becoming ineffective in the event of an outbreak. Do the right thing! Other before you have and the drug is still effective.
Most cases have occurred in chicken farmers and their children.
