Officials have sounded an H5N1 alert in Kerala's Iritty after authorities confirmed the presence of infection in crows.
As per the Kannur district administration, no cases have been reported so far among domestic birds, and no culling is required at this stage. District Collector Arun K Vijayan issued the alert and directed precautionary measures to be stepped up in the area.
What we know so far:
As per officials, the infection was detected only in a crow and no outbreak or surveillance zone has been declared. This also means there is no requirement for culling of birds, the district administration explained.
Further, it was informed that the carcass of birds, if found, will be buried at adequate depth with calcium carbonate by the municipal public health department, following safety protocols.
What is H5N1?
For your daily dose of medical news and updates, visit: HEALTH
H5N1 is one of several influenza viruses that cause a highly infectious respiratory disease in birds called avian influenza or bird flu. Infections in mammals, including humans, have also been documented by health experts.
As per the WHO, H5N1 influenza virus infection can cause a range of diseases in humans, from mild to severe and in some cases, it can even be fatal.
What are the symptoms:
The symptoms of H5N1 infection may include fever and malaise, cough, sore throat and muscle aches. Other early symptoms may include conjunctivitis and other non-respiratory symptoms. The infection may progress quickly to severe respiratory illness and neurologic changes.
Are vaccines available to prevent human infection with H5N1 viruses?
According to the WHO, as part of their influenza pandemic preparedness work, some countries have developed and licensed vaccines that could be used for avian influenza viruses, including H5N1. Currently, human infections of H5N1 are limited and vaccines are not recommended.
For more information, consult a health expert.