Bird Flu: A case of H9N2 bird flu among individual was recently reported in India. With the diagnosis of this virus in a four-year-old child in West Bengal, awareness and preventative actions become imperative.
A Closer Look at H9N2 in India
A four-year-old West Bengali child has been diagnosed with H9N2 bird flu, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Due to severe respiratory problems, high temperature and stomach cramping, the child was admitted to the paediatric critical care unit in February. The child received therapy for three months before being released from the hospital.
With the first case being documented in 2019, this case is the second H9N2 infection in humans in India. The toddler in question was directly exposed to chickens both indoors and outdoors. Thankfully, none of the child’s relatives or other acquaintances reported experiencing any signs of a respiratory disease.
Symptoms of Bird Flu
The symptoms of bird flu can vary widely, from minor to severe. Here are some of the possibilities:
- Mild symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue (similar to the common flu)
- Eye problems: Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Severe symptoms: Difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and even death (in rare cases)
The particular virus and the condition of the patient determine how severe the sickness will be.
Preventive Measures Against Bird Flu
The World Health Organisation advises taking the following precautions to lower the risk of catching H9N2 bird flu:
- Minimise Contact with Poultry: Steer clear of direct contact with birds in places where instances of avian influenza are known to exist, such marketplaces and farms that sell or kill live birds.
- Maintain Hygiene: It’s important to wash your hands and yourself. Before and after interacting with animals, properly wash your hands with soap.
- Stay Informed: Follow the instructions provided by health officials and stay informed about epidemics.
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