Are you a farm worker or owner concerned about avian influenza on your farm?
Take our confidential Avian Influenza Self-Check Tool to assess your risk and receive personalized advice.
What is avian influenza?
Avian influenza (bird flu) is a contagious infection caused by type A influenza viruses. It mostly affects birds but can infect humans and other mammals.
How is avian influenza spread?
Avian influenza is rare in humans. Spread is possible through close contact with infected birds or other infected animals. You can become infected if the virus from an infected bird or animal gets into your mouth, nose or eyes.
What are the symptoms of avian influenza?
Symptoms of avian influenza in humans may include:
- fever
- red eyes with discharge (conjunctivitis)
- cough
- runny nose
- sore throat
- body aches
- headache
- nausea
- diarrhea
- vomiting
Avian influenza can also cause serious illness and complications such as:
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- pneumonia
- respiratory failure
- death
If you have had exposure to an infected bird or poultry premise and develop symptoms, contact your health care provider for testing. You should call first before visiting a health care provider to let them know about your exposure history and symptoms so they can take steps to protect others.
How to prevent animal to human spread of avian influenza?
The following measures can help prevent infection:
- Avoid touching sick or dead birds and animals or their droppings and environments.
- Limit exposure to poultry farms or bird markets.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, including after touching uncooked poultry.
- Do not eat raw or undercooked poultry products.
- Avoid eating/drinking unpasteurized milk or unpasteurized dairy products.
Find out more about avian influenza:
Have questions?
- Call public health at 1-866-990-9941 and select Option 2
- HealthLink BC or call 8-1-1
- Contact Fraser Health Virtual Care