Department of Health, Taipei City Government

1. Introduction to Avian Influenza

Avian influenza is an infection caused by avian influenza viruses. The viruses can be divided into highly pathogenic and low pathogenic strains based on the virulence for poultry. Among poultry (e.g., chicken, turkey, etc.), the avian influenza can be spread through droplets, droppings, personnel, vehicles, implements, eggs, migratory birds, and wild birds, causing the respiratory diseases and deaths of poultry. The avian influenza viruses do not usually infect humans; however, there is still a small possibility of transmission to people who have direct or close contact with infected poultry or their excretions, leading to infection by inhalation or through contact with eye or nasal mucosa. Initial symptoms of avian influenza in humans is similar to that caused by flu, for instance, fever (greater than 38°C), sore throat, cough, muscle aches, headache, general malaise, etc., and sometimes the patients have vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Symptoms of lower respiratory tract, such as difficulty breathing may follow a few days later. Do a good job of self-protection, pay attention to personal hygiene, and follow the “Six Don’ts and Three Do's Guidelines” to effectively prevent the threat of avian influenza.

2. To Prevent Avian Influenza, Be Sure to Follow the “Six Don’ts and Three Do's Guidelines”

Six Don’ts

A. Don’t feed migratory birds and ordinary birds in close distance.

B. Don’t travel to area where avian influenza is widespread to observe poultry farming or exhibitions.

C. Don’t purchase poultry products that come from unknown sources.

D. Don’t purchase and eat diseased poultry.

E. Don’t slaughter poultry on your own.

F. Don’t eat raw poultry meat, eggs, and their relevant products.

Five Do

A. Do eat fully-cooked poultry products (by heating above 70°C).

B. Do wash hand diligently.

C. Do get influenza vaccination.

D. Do receive medical treatment when getting parainfluenza.

E. Do take measures to prevent Avian Influenza.

To prevent avian influenza, be sure to follow the “Six Don’ts and Three Do's Guidelines” that can let us stay away from the threat of avian influenza.