H9N2 infection has once again hit India. The first case was reported in 2019. Now World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that a new patient has been diagnosed with the H9N2 virus in India. The child who is currently undergoing treatment in the pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) locally in West Bengal reported severe respiratory issues. Also, a two-and-a-half-year-old girl was found positive for bird flu in Australia who had earlier traveled to India.
How the infection of bird flu does spread?
The infection called Avian Influenza or Bird flu is caused due to avian birds. It is an infection that occurs when a person comes in contact with Type A viruses due to the avian bird. WHO has said that usually it is caused in animals but in rare cases can also infect humans. According to WHO, “Depending on the original host, influenza A viruses can be classified as avian influenza, swine influenza, or other types of animal influenza viruses.”
Symptoms of Bird Flu
The symptoms first affect the respiratory tract and cause upper respiratory tract infections initially. Later on if not treated on time it can become a severe disease. Some of the symptoms of Bird Flu include:
- Conjunctivitis
- Encephalitis
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Encephalopathy
If left untreated Bird Flu can be fatal.
Laboratory tests such as blood tests are usually done to diagnose Bird Flu but since they are not very common in India, the tests are recommended only when the patient does not respond to the regular treatment directed for influenza.
Precautions for Bird Flu
According to WHO, Bird Flu can be prevented by minimizing contact with the animals especially if they are known to be affected by any kind of disease or influenza viruses. This includes farms and even areas where animals are slaughtered or sold.
If you are in the business of selling or slaughtering animals or often come in contact with animals then you must practice good personal and hand hygiene like washing your hands with soap every time after coming in contact with animals.