H9N2 Bird Flu in India: WHO Confirms Second Human Case in West Bengal, All you Need to Know

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Keywords: H9N2, Bird Flu, Avian Influenza, West Bengal, India, WHO, Human Case, Poultry, Symptoms, Prevention, Transmission

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a second human case of H9N2 bird flu in India, bringing the total number of cases to two. The latest case was identified in West Bengal, following the first case in the same state in January 2023.

What is H9N2?

H9N2 is a subtype of avian influenza, commonly found in poultry. While it is primarily a bird virus, it can occasionally infect humans, typically through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.

Symptoms in Humans:

H9N2 infections in humans are usually mild, with symptoms similar to the common cold, including:

Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Headache
Muscle aches
Runny nose

Transmission:

H9N2 primarily spreads through contact with infected birds or their droppings. Transmission between humans is rare.

Prevention:

Avoid contact with sick or dead poultry: Do not handle or touch sick or dead birds.
Proper hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling poultry or contact with birds.
Cook poultry thoroughly: Ensure poultry is cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to kill any virus.
Avoid contact with bird droppings: Wear protective gear, like gloves and masks, if handling bird droppings.

What’s being done?

Following the confirmation of the cases, the Indian government has initiated several measures, including:

Increased surveillance: Intensified monitoring of poultry farms and markets.
Culling infected birds: Eliminating infected birds to prevent further spread.
Public awareness campaigns: Educating the public about the virus and preventive measures.

The Importance of Vigilance:

While H9N2 is typically mild in humans, it is important to remain vigilant. Early detection and prompt response are crucial to control the spread of the virus and minimize its impact.

Seeking Medical Attention:

If you experience flu-like symptoms after contact with poultry or birds, seek immediate medical attention. Inform your doctor about your recent exposure to birds.

The Future:

The emergence of H9N2 in humans highlights the ongoing threat posed by avian influenza. Continued monitoring, robust public health measures, and global cooperation are critical to minimize the risk of future outbreaks.