How bad is the bird flu outbreak in India? 6 key questions answered

With bird flu confirmed in nine states, there is a cause for concern in India after the recent trauma of the Covid-19 pandemic. Though no cases have yet been reported in humans, reports show that consumption of chicken and eggs has already started falling as the fear of contracting bird flu grows. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about bird flu:What is bird flu? Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a viral infection that can infect birds, but also humans and other animals. The most common form of the flu H5N1 is deadly to birds and easily spreads to humans. However, the virus is not yet known to spread via human-to-human contact. Symptoms of the H5N1 infection are similar to a common flu, ranging from coughing, respiratory problems, fever and headaches, among others. What states are on alert? There are confirmed cases of bird flu in nine states — Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. These states have confirmed the virus in local birds, crows, and migratory species that were found dead, prompting the agriculture and other concerned ministries to hold meetings to tackle plan of action and spreading information.Is bird flu worrying? What do health experts say?

The main cause for concern is the high mortality rate of 60 per cent in humans that contract the most common strain of bird flu. It is high priority to curb the spread of the virus that spreads from contact with the infected birds, but also with their droppings and contaminated surfaces.Another worry is for the poultry industry that is experiencing a hit in consumer demand, with sales and prices of poultry falling considerably.Is it okay to eat chicken or eggs? As the virus dies when exposed to temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius, chicken or eggs that are well-cooked would be considered safe for consumption. The highest risk of exposure to bird flu is when there is contact with infected avian fecal matter, for example during slaughter, defeathering, and butchering.Why is there a resurgence of bird flu? It was only two decades ago in 1997 when humans were first found to contract bird flu following an outbreak. Since then there have been multiple major and smaller resurgences, with the culling of infected birds seen as the common measure to stop the spread.Unregulated live animal markets, and the global movement of infected poultry and even of migratory birds is seen as the main cause of spread. This has been a the case in Southeast Asia in particular. What precautions should one take? The key precautions would include avoiding live animal markets and poultry farms, avoiding contact with dead birds and bird droppings, and frequently washing hands and maintaining hygiene. According to the WHO, a large number of human infections have been linked to the home slaughter and subsequent handling of sick or dead birds prior to cooking.