Virulence

Bird flu is caused by a very serious virus that, unfortunately, has a great ability to infect animals and people. Unlike many other viruses, the bird flu virus can be spread from like animal to like animal, from unlike animal to unlike animal, from animal to person, and even from person to animal. The sheer number of ways in which it can be transmitted and the fact that it can be transmitted among different species makes it incredibly virulent. This also means that the term "bird flu" is somewhat misleading. This term refers only to how the virus start, which actually is with the avian population.

Birds that are infected with the virus can spread it to any person or animal that comes into direct contact with contaminated bodily fluid, including waste, blood, and mucus. It can also be contracted by having direct contact with surfaces that have come into contact with contaminated fluids. As such, practicing good hygiene can really help to curb the transmission of this dangerous virus. Individuals should always wash their hands after touching or preparing poultry or eggs. They should also avoid eating undercooked poultry or eggs. This is especially important in areas where bird flu is common.

If good preventative measures are not practiced, it is extremely likely that bird flu could become a human pandemic. Since there is not yet a cure for this very dangerous and potentially life threatening virus, this is the last thing that needs to happen. Fortunately, however, a vaccination for humans is in the works. In the meantime, those who think they may be infected should visit with a doctor as soon as possible. There are things that can be done to reduce the likelihood of spreading the virus and some medications may help to ease symptoms. Without proper health care, however, there is a very large chance that individuals will die or develop life threatening complications.