Colds and the Flu - Introduction

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Highlights	Complications	Medications
Introduction	Risk Factors	Resources
Diagnosis	Prevention	References

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

The influenza virus mutates (changes) rapidly as it moves from species to species. While most avian influenza (bird flu) virus strains are relatively harmless, a few develop into "highly pathogenic avian influenza," which can be very deadly for domesticated poultry. As recent events have shown, these strains can also be deadly to humans. People can become infected by these bird flu strains through contact with contaminated chickens and other birds. The medical community is concerned about the H5N1 bird flu virus, which has infected and killed people in several countries.

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Since 1997, the H5N1 virus has triggered deadly outbreaks in poultry across Southeast Asia. As of January 5, 2011, 516 people had been infected with the bird flu in 15 countries. Of these people, 306 have died, according to the World Health Organization. No cases have been reported in the United States.

So far, the virus has spread only from birds to humans. The virus does not seem to be easily spread from person to person. However, scientists and public health officials are monitoring the spread of H5N1 and working to contain it. Efforts include slaughtering infected birds, developing new vaccines, and stockpiling antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu). Many poor nations have limited resources and already contend with other serious health problems, including HIV-AIDS. If H5N1 does mutate and spread, the consequences could be especially severe for these countries.

In April 2007, the FDA approved a vaccine to protect humans from avian influenza. Currently this vaccine is not being used for routine immunization. However, if the avian flu develops the ability to spread fairly easily from human to human, this vaccine may be made available.

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Review Date: 01/29/2011
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).