Information on Avian Flu

Influenza
-Influenza is an acute illness of the respiratory tract characterized by fever, headache, muscle ache, running nose, cough and sore throat. The disease is usually self-limiting with recovery in 2-7 days. In Hong Kong, the common subtypes of influenza are influenza A(H3N2), A(H1N1) and B. The usual peak season is from January to March each year.
-Most patients with influenza recover in 2-7 days, and the body produces antibody to the virus. However, certain populations such as elderly persons, children and persons with chronic medical conditions are more likely to develop complications like bronchitis and pneumonia.

Avian Flu
-H5N1 virus is one type of Influenza A. It is known previously to infect birds only, but 18 and 2 human cases were documented in Hong Kong in 1997 and 2003 respectively. Avian Flu (H5N1) is transmitted from infected live birds to man. Transmission between humans is very inefficient. Avian Flu (H5N1) has similar initial clinical presentation as other influenza viruses. However, it is more likely to result in high fever, chest infection, respiratory failure, multi-organ failure, even death.
-Since late 2003, outbreaks of Avian Flu in chickens and ducks have been reported in several Asian countries. Cases of human infection have also been reported. The Department of Health has been closely monitoring the situation and has adopted appropriate preventive measures to prevent the import of the disease. HKSAR has an effective surveillance system for influenza in birds and humans. Since March 2003, no human case of Avian Flu H5N1 has been found in the local population.

Prevention of Avian Flu and Human Flu
-Droppings of infected birds and poultry may carry the avian flu virus, so avoid touching live birds or poultry or their droppings.
-If you have been in contact with live birds or poultry, immediately wash your hands thoroughly with liquid soap and water.
-Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly before eating.
-Wash hands thoroughly before touching eyes, nose, mouth or any part of the face.
-Another effective means for protection against influenza is having good body resistance. This can be achieved through a balanced diet, regular exercise, sufficient rest, reducing stress, and not smoking.
-Avoid crowded places with poor ventilation.
-If you develop fever and respiratory symptoms after returning from a country that reports an avian flu outbreak, consult your doctor and tell him/her about your travel history.
-If you have symptoms of influenza, consult a doctor and wear a mask to prevent spread of the disease.

Treatment of Avian Flu
-People with influenza should have adequate rest and sleep and drink plenty of fluid. Anti-fever medicine and cough syrup are useful to reduce symptoms. Unless there is bacterial infection, antibiotics should not be used. Patients should also observe personal hygiene and wash hands frequently to prevent spreading the virus from the hands which can get the virus from contact with the nose or mouth. Aspirin should not be used in children because it can induce Reye's Syndrome. For patients with lower resistance or when there are signs of deterioration, e.g. persistent high fever or shortness of breath, they should seek early medical advice.
-Avian Flu H5N1 is generally more severe than an ordinary 'flu', and many patients require hospital care. Some anti-viral drugs may be effective in treating the condition. However, drugs should be used carefully following doctor's instructions as they may cause adverse side effects.

Source of references: Department of Health
Enquiry Hotline: 2833 0111
Website: www.dh.gov.hk
CT/No. 36 (Mar, 2004)