H5N1

H5N1, which is commonly referred to as "bird flu" is an influenza like virus that can infect people and animals. Exposure to the virus H5N1, which is known to come from birds, is what causes the illness to occur. The virus spreads quickly in both humans and animals and, if left untreated, can wipe out or make seriously ill entire populations.

Sadly, many areas in which humans and animals are affected by H5N1 are expected to experience an increase in new cases each year. Scientists have developed a vaccination for farming birds, though there is no vaccination available for humans as of yet. It is rumored, however, that a vaccination is being created. There were 11 H5N1 outbreaks in 2008 spreading across China, Vietnam, Egypt, Pakistan, and Indonesia. It is believed, however, that the virus has affected people and animals in other parts of the world but has not been reported or recognized and understood. At least 510 people have been affected with H5N1 and, of these, 303 have died. It is important to keep in mind that these figures include only the reported and properly diagnosed cases; it is quite likely that many, many more have died or fallen ill as a result of the virus.

Though H5N1 and the various effects it has on the human body are still being studied, some symptoms have proven to be common to humans suffering from the virus. These symptoms, as the name "bird flu" implies are flu like in nature. They tend to include difficulty breathing, pneumonia, coughing spells, the running of a high fever, sore throat, muscle aches and pain, and general feelings of lethargy. If symptoms such as these occur, individuals are encouraged to get to a doctor as soon as possible. Though it is unlikely that individuals in well developed countries will catch this virus, these symptoms still often belie a serious illness that will require prompt medical attention.