(1888PressRelease)
June 10, 2006 - Many Americans go about their day without giving thought to the bird flu. Some on the other hand, understand now that the avian bird flu is a real and serious threat not only to health, but also the US economy. The Bird Flu Center, www.thebirdflucenter.com has launched a new website that is an international bird flu portal. Not only does it contain information and facts about the bird flu, it contains most of the national and international links. Their philosophy is to present as many facts and scenarios as possible, keeping in mind that this whole process mostly involves unknowns at this time. It is an interesting look at the bird flu from several different perspectives and anyone seeking information on the avian bird flu should take the time to read it. Here is just a brief section on basic information:
Avian influenza, the bird flu, is an infection caused by avian (bird) influenza (flu) viruses. These influenza viruses occur naturally among birds. Wild birds worldwide carry the viruses in their intestines, but usually do not get sick from them. However, avian influenza is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds, including chickens, ducks, and turkeys, very sick and kill them.
Infected birds shed influenza virus, the bird flu, in their saliva, nasal secretions, and feces. Susceptible birds become infected when they have contact with contaminated secretions or excretions or with surfaces that are contaminated with secretions or excretions from infected birds. Domesticated birds may become infected with avian influenza virus through direct contact with infected waterfowl or other infected poultry, or through contact with surfaces (such as dirt or cages) or materials (such as water or feed) that have been contaminated with the virus.
Infection with avian influenza viruses, the bird flu, in domestic poultry causes two main forms of disease that are distinguished by low and high extremes of virulence. The “low pathogenic” form may go undetected and usually causes only mild symptoms (such as ruffled feathers and a drop in egg production). However, the highly pathogenic form spreads more rapidly through flocks of poultry. This form may cause disease that affects multiple internal organs and has a mortality rate that can reach 90-100% often within 48 hours.
You can read the rest at www.thebirdflucenter.com
###
