Prevention

Bird flu, also commonly referred to as the H5N1 virus, is relatively uncommon in most parts of the world. However, this does not mean that any person has a zero percent chance of contracting this dangerous and often deadly virus. One of the best ways to reduce the risk of contracting the virus, however, is to educate oneself about bird flu and the countries in which outbreaks are common. Avoiding travel to these countries or contact with people or animals from these countries is good common sense and can help to reduce the likelihood of contracting the virus greatly.

Of course, sometimes travel to a particular affected country or area cannot be avoided, for work, family obligations, or whatever reason. When this is the case, following certain tips can help to prevent the transmission of bird flu. These include avoiding any and all contact with wild or even domesticated birds; avoiding farms and marketplaces; not allowing children to place objects or fingers in their mouths or eyes; avoiding egg products or washing eggs thoroughly before use; washing hands after touching eggs; not consuming any foods in which raw eggs are an ingredient; washing hands and other supplies and utensils used to prepare poultry products; and avoiding poultry or only cooking it of temperatures of 80 degrees Celsius or higher.

Those who are planning long visits to affected countries or areas or who are planning to move to infected areas will want to talk to their doctors about taking antiviral medications before departure. These medications can make it less likely that bird flu will be contracted and, if contracted, will keep it from mixing with other influenza viruses to form a new strain of the virus. However, there is no cure or vaccination for the virus, so it is important to always practice good safety techniques and never to take any unnecessary risks.