The avian influenza virus can more frequently kill domesticated birds, such as chickens and turkeys. Symptoms in birds differ according to the species but can include diarrhoea, breathing difficulties, swollen head and death. A sick bird sheds the virus in its feathers, mucous, saliva and faeces.
What happens if your birds get bird flu?
Low pathogenic avian influenza ( LPAI ) is usually less serious and may show more vague clinical signs. It can cause mild breathing problems and reduction of egg production, but affected birds will not always show clear signs of infection.
How do you know if a bird has bird flu?
Typically this form of the disease presents suddenly, often with very high mortality, with affected birds developing swollen heads, a blue colouration of the comb and wattles, dullness, lack of appetite, respiratory distress, diarrhoea and significant drop in egg production.
What do birds have to do with the flu?
Infected birds can shed avian influenza A viruses in their saliva, nasal secretions, and feces. Susceptible birds become infected when they have contact with the virus as it is shed by infected birds. They also can become infected through contact with surfaces that are contaminated with virus from infected birds.
Can you eat a bird with bird flu?
You can't catch bird flu through eating fully cooked poultry or eggs, even in areas with an outbreak of bird flu.
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