Bird Flu Spreading Rapidly Across Nepal, Experts Advise Precautions

The deadly avian influenza, or bird flu, infection that has been observed in Nepal for some time has spread rapidly in various districts across the country, including the Kathmandu Valley.

Especially, the three districts of the Kathmandu Valley – Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur – have emerged as the main 'hotspots' of this infection. Bird flu is a contagious virus that affects chickens and other birds. According to doctors, it can be transmitted, especially to humans who come into direct contact with infected birds or farms, but it does not spread easily from person to person.

In this context, we spoke with Dr. Bimal Sharma Chalise, a consultant general physician working at Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital. Here is an edited excerpt of the conversation with Dr. Chalise regarding bird flu-

What is Bird Flu? How can we understand it?

Bird flu is a type of virus that is predominantly seen in chickens and other birds. It has been continuously observed in Nepal for some days, and its infection is spreading in many districts of Nepal.

What is the possibility of this disease spreading from chickens to humans and from humans to humans?

There is a possibility of this disease spreading to humans who come into direct contact with chickens infected with bird flu or with sick birds, but significant examples of human-to-human transmission have not been found so far.

When bird flu is spreading, how risky is it to eat chicken meat and eggs?

If it is from healthy chickens and their eggs, there is no need to be afraid to eat them, but if it is from chickens infected with bird flu or their eggs, there is a possibility of transmission to humans. Therefore, it is best not to come into contact with sick birds or consume such products.

How to know if a person has bird flu, and what tests should be done if suspected?

The symptoms seen in humans are similar to other seasonal flu. Red eyes, runny nose, sore throat, fever, body aches, and cough are its common symptoms. In severe cases, pneumonia can occur, and other organs of the body can also be affected. If a person living in an area where bird flu has been detected or working on such a farm shows these symptoms, they should be tested immediately to determine if they have bird flu.

How can bird flu in chickens or birds be identified?

Sudden deaths of a large number of birds, decreased egg production, and swelling in the throat area are its symptoms. However, it can only be confirmed as bird flu after collecting samples and testing them in a laboratory.

What is the reason for bird flu, which was previously seen only in commercial chickens, now being seen in wild birds as well? Is this a new variant?

As its name is bird flu, it can occur in all bird species. People believe it only affects chickens because they raise and consume a lot of chicken, but it can be seen in any bird.

What are the ways to prevent bird flu?

Individuals working on farms should immediately report to the concerned authorities if chickens suddenly start dying or egg production decreases.

When working, personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and gowns should be used. General public should eat meat or eggs brought from the market only after cooking them thoroughly.

When going to places with many birds or where infection has spread, wear a mask and goggles. Pay attention to personal hygiene such as washing hands with soap and water or using sanitizer.

How appropriate is it to eat meat and eggs at the current time?

It is not that meat and eggs cannot be eaten. This virus dies when cooked at temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius, so it can be eaten after cooking thoroughly. However, if it is known to be a product from an infected area, it is better not to use it.

What should be the role of the Ministry of Health in minimizing the risk of bird flu to humans?

In this, human, animal, and the environment should all be considered according to the 'One Health' concept. The Ministry of Health should arrange for the treatment of patients and the timely identification and diagnosis of suspected patients.

What is the suggestion for those who eat 'half-boiled' eggs or undercooked meat for health?

Although it may be done for taste in normal circumstances, during the risk of bird flu, eggs and meat should be eaten only after cooking them thoroughly. It is safe to eat eggs cooked until the yolk is firm.

If some chickens in the same farm have died and some are alive, can those live chickens be eaten?

No. Once infection is detected on a farm, all chickens may have been infected. Even if symptoms are not visible, eating the meat of those chickens is risky.