Disease reference · Medical information
Avian influenza (bird flu) — what it is
Avian influenza (bird flu) is an influenza A virus that circulates in wild birds and poultry. Human infections are uncommon and are closely monitored.
Last reviewed 2026-10-07 · Based on WHO / CDC
Overview
Avian influenza viruses infect birds; some strains such as H5N1 can occasionally infect people and other mammals. Human infections are relatively uncommon and typically follow close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
Health authorities monitor these viruses closely because they can change. Current public-health risk to the general public is usually assessed as low, though people with direct animal exposure face higher risk.
Symptoms
When people are infected, symptoms range from mild, flu-like illness (fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches) and eye irritation, to more severe respiratory illness.
Severe cases can lead to pneumonia and breathing difficulty, which is why prompt medical care matters.
How it spreads
Mainly through direct or close contact with infected birds or poultry, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces and unpasteurised products from affected animals.
Sustained person-to-person spread of avian flu has not been established; occasional human cases are linked to animal exposure.
Prevention & care
Avoid contact with sick or dead birds and contaminated environments; cook poultry and eggs thoroughly; practise good hand hygiene. People working with birds should use protective equipment.
Antiviral medicines used for seasonal flu can treat avian influenza, early treatment improves outcomes, and a seasonal flu shot reduces the chance of co-infection. See a health professional if unwell after bird exposure.
Questions
Is there a bird-flu outbreak linked to the Irkutsk case?
Is eating poultry safe?
Sources
Official / WHO / health authorities (Tier 1)
Tier 3 sources are treated as unverified leads and are never used as the basis for figures.