Avian Influenza

Bird flu; H5N1

Symptoms of avian flu infection in humans depend on the particular strain of virus. In case of the H5N1 virus, infection in humans causes more classic flu-like symptoms, which might include:

• Cough (dry or productive)
• Sore throat  
• Fever  > 100.4°F (38°C)
• Difficulty breathing
• Diarrhea
• Runny nose
• Headache
• Malaise
• Muscle aches

If you think you have been exposed to avian influenza, call your health care provider before your visit. This will give the staff a chance to take proper precautions that will protect them and other patients.

In February 2006, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration approved a new, faster test for diagnosing strains of bird flu in people suspected of having the virus. The test is called the Influenza A/H5 (Asian lineage) Virus Real-time RT-PCR Primer and Probe Set. The test gives preliminary results within 4 hours. Older tests required 2 to 3 days.

Your doctor might also perform the following tests:

• Chest x-ray  
• Nasopharyngeal culture  
• Blood differential
• Auscultation (to detect abnormal breath sounds)

Other tests may be done to look at the functions of your heart, kidneys, and liver.

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New Laboratory Assay for Diagnostic Testing of Avian Influenza A/H5 (Asian Lineage). MMWR. February 3, 2006/55(Early Release);1.

World Health Organization. Cumulative number of confirmed human cases of avian influenza A/(H5N1) reported to WHO. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization; 2006. Available at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/country/cases_table_2006_02_06/en/index.html.

Beigel JH, Farrar J, Han AM, et al. Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Infection in Humans. N Engl J Med 2005;353:1374-85.

Arias DC. Response Plans Prepare for Avian Influenza Outbreak: Progress Made on Vaccine for Flu Strain. The Nation?s Health 2005;35(8).

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