Sun28November0628PM 29

Which of the following is correct regarding transmission, prevention and treatment of avian 'bird' flu (H5N1)?

(Please select 1 option)

Bird flu is not transmitted by touching birds dead or alive

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) will cure a person infected with bird flu

Bird flu is not transmitted from being in contact with dried bird droppings of infected birds

Bird flu is not transmitted through cooked food Correct

It is suggested that travel to countries affected by bird flu be avoided

Explanation

There are many types of bird flu, most of which are harmless to humans. However a couple of strains have caused concern globally in recent years, affecting large numbers of humans and threatening pandemic levels. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that as of July 2013, 633 people had been infected with the H5N1 virus and 377 had died.

Between 2003 and July 2013 WHO has confirmed cases of H5N1 in humans in:

Azerbaijan

Bangladesh

Cambodia

China (outbreaks of H7N9 strain also reported)

Djibouti

Egypt

Indonesia

Iraq

Laos

Myanmar (Burma)

Nigeria

Pakistan

Thailand

Turkey, and

Vietnam.

Tamiflu and Relenza (in pregnancy) are licensed as antivirals for avian flu. However these may (or may not) help to alleviate symptoms; they are by no means prescribed as a 'cure'. Treatment is largely supportive with fluids and paracetamol.

In cases of super-added pneumonia targeted treatment of staphylococcal infection is required.

Reference:

NHS Choices. Bird flu (avian flu).

Answer Statistics

1

3%

2

7%

3

2%

4

62%

5

28%

Times answered: 307