We all hope that bird flu never reaches North America, but if it does, the disease could cause serious problems here, too. As the threat of bird flu looms closer and we brace ourselves for its arrival, it’s important to remember that everyone can do their part to protect themselves and prevent this potential pandemic from spreading further. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself from bird flu if you’re a bird watcher.
Become Aware of the Symptoms
The most common symptoms of bird flu are similar to those of other respiratory diseases and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headaches, and fatigue. While bird flu isn’t fatal in humans (though there have been some deaths), it is still worth your time to get a diagnosis as soon as possible. After all, you wouldn’t want to carry an illness for days or weeks without knowing about it. So if you think you might be experiencing any of these symptoms, go see a doctor immediately—and don’t forget to mention that you spend lots of time with birds!
Wear Protective Clothing
Most birders are cognizant of how bird flu spreads. But, in case you’re not familiar with how it works, here’s what you need to know: Infected birds can carry and spread bird flu without exhibiting any symptoms of illness. That means even if you don’t see any sick birds, it doesn’t mean they’re all healthy. So, as always when you’re outside, wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from mosquitoes—which can transmit bird flu. And wash your hands frequently while outdoors (with soap and water) or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. And remember that touching your face or eyes after handling birds could put you at risk for infection too!
Do Not Eat Birds
According to researchers, bird flu can be contracted through both direct and indirect contact with birds or their droppings. However, there are several precautions you can take while bird watching to protect yourself. First and foremost, do not eat birds that you catch or see dead in your vicinity. Also, wear gloves and a mask when cleaning up areas where birds have defecated or died—and never touch your mouth without first washing your hands. If you think you’ve been exposed to bird flu, seek medical attention immediately.
Wash Your Hands After Handling Birds
There is no evidence that bird watchers will be at greater risk of contracting avian influenza than other people. But if you handle birds, it’s important to wash your hands with soap and water afterwards—especially before eating or touching your face. That way, you can help protect yourself from germs that may be in or on your hands. Hand sanitizer won’t do; you need soap and water for best results. Also, don’t use towels used by others to dry your hands; use paper towels instead. And when preparing food (including cooking), wear gloves when handling raw poultry products like chicken, turkey or duck meat. Always cook these foods thoroughly before eating them (and avoid cross-contamination by washing all cutting boards, utensils and dishes thoroughly after using them).
Keep Your Distance From Birds You Don’t Know
Since avian flu is spread through direct contact, bird-watchers can help protect themselves by keeping their distance from wild birds. When observing birds, try not to get closer than 6 feet (or 2 meters). In other words, if you can’t pet it comfortably at arm’s length, don’t pet it. Also avoid touching dead or injured birds and wash your hands after handling any birds or their droppings. And remember: Birds are just as susceptible to flu as humans are—and they can infect each other, too! Be sure to report sick or dead birds to local authorities so that they can be tested for H5N1 virus.
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