What Happens If Bird Flu Becomes Airborne? Here’s How Long Infection Lasts

A rapidly spreading strain of H5N1 avian influenza, more commonly referred to as bird flu, has ravaged bird populations worldwide. Since 2022, over 147 million birds in the U.S. alone have been affected, causing economic strain, increasing egg prices, and growing public health concerns. The virus has also begun spreading to other mammals, including dairy cows, cats, and even humans. The question of the day stands tall: what if bird flu mutated to turn airborne and effectively spread among people? Scientists warned that such mutation would be all it took for the next great global pandemic. Understanding Bird Flu: What makes it dangerous?

Bird flu is one of the forms of influenza which mainly infects birds but occasionally jumps to humans and other mammals. The high fatality rate among infected humans makes H5N1 more alarming. Similar to human flu viruses such as H1N1 and H3N2, H5N1 also has distinct protein structures that will not let it spread from one person to another, at least for now.

There are two major known subtypes of avian flu that have infected humans: influenza A(H5N1) and influenza A(H7N9). WHO reports that H5N1 mortality in the Western Pacific Region has reached up to 54% among reported cases. Despite the fact that human infections are rare, health experts are always worried about mutation.

Can Bird Flu Become Airborne?

Currently, H5N1 is not yet able to be transmitted from person to person by the air, although viruses are found to evolve. If H5N1's genetic makeup is changed in such a manner that it can be airborne, scientists fear that it may lead to a deadly pandemic. Unlike seasonal influenza, which spreads by respiratory droplets, bird flu is mainly transmitted by direct contact or any exposure to the infected animal or their body fluids. However, airborne transmission would mean the virus could spread much more easily, making containment significantly more difficult.

Researchers are keeping a close eye on cases in mammals, as transmission among non-bird species may be a sign that the virus is adapting. Pandemics such as the 1918 Spanish flu have, in the past, originated from animal influenza viruses that mutated to become highly transmissible in humans. If H5N1 takes this path, the world may be facing a severe public health crisis.

How Do Humans Get Infected with Bird Flu?

Although it is rare, bird flu can be transmitted to humans. Infected birds spread the virus through their saliva, mucus, and excrement. Other infected animals, like dairy cows, can also harbor the virus in their respiratory secretions, milk, or blood. In these cases, the virus is transferred to humans by direct contact with infected animals or surfaces. These viruses may enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth and can be inhaled via airborne particles, such as dust.

Although human infections have been few, the threat remains that each new case increases the possibility of mutation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. emphasizes that the risk to the general population remains low, but cautions close contact workers who work closely with animals, like farmworkers and veterinarians.

Symptoms and Duration of Bird Flu Infection in Humans

The incubation period for H5N1 in humans varies but generally ranges between 2 to 5 days, with some cases taking up to 17 days to manifest symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Sore throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis)

Most recent U.S. cases have been mildly symptomatic but, worldwide, H5N1 infections have caused severe respiratory illness and sometimes death. Mortality has been high in all previous outbreaks; thus, officials are on their toes in regard to new infections.

Who's at Greatest Risk?

The people at high risk of acquiring bird flu are those who are in close contact with infected animals, such as poultry farm workers, veterinarians, and dairy farmers. Also, people whose immune systems are weakened, including young children and older adults, are more susceptible to severe illness. Although this is rare, there have been documented cases of limited human-to-human transmission, especially among family members caring for infected individuals.

Are Eggs Safe To Eat?

Well, health experts have assured me that properly cooked poultry and eggs do not harbor the virus of avian bird flu. Also, high heat will kill such a virus for human consumption; however, sometimes birds get flu even after ingesting raw commercial pet food leading to the transfer of the diseases in under-cooked animal-based food products.

Raw milk from infected cows remains a potential risk, though more research is needed to determine the extent of its transmissibility. The CDC advises avoiding raw dairy products and ensuring that all poultry and eggs are thoroughly cooked before consumption.

Preventive Measures: How to Stay Safe

Although the current level of risk in humans is quite low, extra precautions are best taken, starting with people regularly in contact with birds or live stocks. Such precautions have included the following recommendation by the CDC:

• Avoid all direct contact with sick or dead birds and animals.
• Use adequate protective equipment- gloves, mask, goggles-as needed to collect potentially infected animals.
• Wash hands well afterwards with soap, water, antiseptic cleaners, and all poultry and its products.
• Poultry and eggs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
• Pasteurized dairy products are the safest options.

Monitor for symptoms if you have been exposed to infected animals. Seek medical attention if flu-like symptoms occur.

The Uncertain Future of H5N1

Although the threat of an airborne mutation is speculative at this point, scientists warn against complacency. Surveillance programs monitor changes in the virus, and vaccine development is ongoing to prepare for a potential outbreak.

Like all other emerging infectious diseases, preparation is essential. Public health officers encourage further studies and collaboration that would ensure an early detection and control of H5N1 before it even threatens the entire world.

For now, the risk of a bird flu pandemic is low, but the experience with COVID-19 teaches that preparedness should be proactive. Understanding the risks, staying informed, and following recommended safety protocols can help to minimize potential dangers in the years ahead.