Avian influenza - Human health

Generally, humans are not affected by most strains of avian influenza. However certain strains, such as H5N1, can cause influenza in humans. The first recorded human death from avian influenza was in Hong Kong in 1997.

Transmission of avian influenza from animals to humans is mainly by:

• direct contact with live birds infected with the virus
• direct contact with faeces, nasal or eye discharges from infected birds.

In the event of an outbreak of avian influenza occurring in Australian poultry, consumers of poultry meat and egg products should not be concerned, as the risk of infection from eating poultry products is extremely low. The avian influenza virus (like most other viruses and bacteria) is destroyed by adequate heating or cooking.

What should you do?

If you are handling birds which may be infected, please take precautions:

• avoid skin contact by wearing gloves and long sleeves
• avoid breathing in dust or feather materials
• exposed skin should be thoroughly washed with soap and water
• contaminated areas should be disinfected with household bleach.

If you are in contact with birds-especially poultry and domestic waterfowl-and experience flu like symptoms, contact your local medical practitioner or Queensland Health.

Want more information?

More information on human health aspects of avian influenza is available from: 

• Queensland Health
  
  
• Department of Health and Ageing
  Information Hotline - 1800 004 599
  
  
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
  Information for international travellers to destinations where avian influenza has been detected.

Last updated 23 November 2005