Beware - bird flu!

On the territory of Pavlodar region since September 21, cases of bird flu have been registered. The veterinary service is carrying out large-scale anti-epizootic measures: quarantine, destruction of dead birds, disinfection of farmsteads, etc.

Let's remind: bird flu is an acute viral infection of birds and humans, caused by one of the strains of influenza type A. The source of infection is wild waterfowl and poultry. The virus lives in the intestines and is excreted mainly in the faeces.

How to recognize sick birds? The incubation period (from the moment of infection to the manifestation of signs) is 1-7 days. The affected individual has drowsiness, sneezing, hoarse breathing, lacrimation, symptoms of diarrhea, disheveled plumage, paralysis of the neck (throwing the head back) and limbs, swelling of the head, neck, unsteady gait, refusal of food and water. Avian influenza has a high mortality rate. When cutting the carcasses of sick birds under the skin in the head, neck and intestines, yellow-red gelatinous edema is found, all internal organs and muscles seem to be splattered with blood.

To date, treatment for birds has not been developed. In view of the danger of the spread of the pathogen, the sick bird is immediately destroyed.

Human-to-human transmission of avian influenza viruses has not been reported in any country in the world. Infection with the virus can occur through poorly cooked, fried poultry or eggs.

How do you protect yourself from getting bird flu? We strongly advise you not to buy poultry products in places of unauthorized trade; before use for food, meat and eggs must be thoroughly heat treated, the shells must be washed with soapy water; avoid close contact with poultry and wild birds whenever possible. It is also not recommended to eat game and raw eggs. Refrain from marinating without further heat treatment, preparation of protein creams.

We draw the attention of poultry owners! To protect your birds from the flu, provide window screens with screens. The walking area should also be fenced with nets on all sides to protect against contact with migratory birds. When caring for poultry, it is recommended to use a robe, gauze masks, gloves and scarves. Keep the premises and walking areas clean, regularly irrigate the walls, floor of the premises and the ground with disinfectants and remove droppings (do not touch it without gloves), store bird feed in a separate place inaccessible to wild birds; wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after visiting bird houses.

The most effective way to protect yourself is by getting the seasonal flu vaccine.

When the first signs of the disease appear after contact with a bird (an increase in body temperature to 38-400, chills, nasal discharge, sore throat, muscle pain, abnormal stool), it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor to establish a diagnosis and prescribe timely treatment.