Bird flu
Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a disease impacting poultry and other birds, caused by influenza virus variants that are highly contagious among birds. These viruses can cause illness and even death in birds. Certain bird flu strains can also infect humans, leading to severe flu-like symptoms, but this occurs only through direct, close contact with infected birds.
Where is bird flu found?
Bird flu is present worldwide. The Netherlands serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds, with nearly all of them stopping or flying over the country. This involves hundreds of millions of birds annually, potentially carrying and introducing new bird flu variants.
What are the symptoms?
Human cases of bird flu are extremely rare. When infection occurs, symptoms resemble those of regular flu, including:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Cough
- Eye inflammation
- Severe pneumonia
- Breathlessness
How to prevent bird flu?
Bird flu can occasionally transfer from animals to humans, known as zoonosis, typically after close contact with sick birds, such as in poultry farming or handling dead birds. It is advised to avoid contact with dead birds.
Currently, no specific vaccine exists for bird flu due to the numerous and rapidly changing virus subtypes. People working closely with potentially sick animals may receive antiviral medications to lower the risk of illness.
More information
For more details on bird flu, visit the RIVM information page: Bird flu | RIVM.