Bird Flu outbreak in India: Another case of H9N2 Avian Flu reported

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed a case of Avina influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in a four-year-old child from West Bengal, India.

This marks the second human infection with a H9N2 strain of bird flu reported in India since 2019. 

Speaking to the media, health officials have confirmed that the child has now recovered and was discharged from hospital.

H9N2 Avian Flu is a branch of the Influenza A virus that primarily targets poultry birds such as chickens and turkeys.

It is also capable of affecting humans. In 1992, the first H9N2 cases in humans popped up in Hong Kong and since then the variant has been a kind of bird flu common across regions such as Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

The common symptoms of H9N2 Avian Flu Virus in humans can be:

• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Digestive issues
• Back Pain
• Extreme tiredness
• Fever

As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), the virus can spread via Coming into direct contact with infected birds or their droppings is the primary way H9N2 Avian Flu Variant spreads. It is less common, but technically possible, for it to transmit from human to human, particularly in settings where close contact is prevalent."

Well, to prevent infection, it's important to practice good personal hygiene, follow proper food safety guidelines and stay steer clear of sick birds.