How is avian flu spread? How do people get avian flu?
Migratory water birds, such as wild ducks, are the natural carriers of avian influenza viruses and are naturally resistant to infection. Domestic birds, on the other hand, are particularly vulnerable and can be infected by being in contact with wild birds, other infected domestic birds, or contaminated cages, water, or feed. Avian influenza viruses do not normally infect species other than birds and pigs. The first recorded infection of humans with an avian flu virus occurred in Hong Kong in 1997, affecting 18 humans, of whom 6 died. It is believed that most cases of avian flu infection in humans have resulted from contact with infected poultry or contaminated surfaces. Infected birds shed virus in saliva, nasal discharges, and feces. A person can catch the avian flu virus when an infected chicken coughs or sneezes onto his/her face, or by breathing in bird dropping particles. Other means of transmission of avian flu viruses are possible, such as t hrough an intermediate host (includin
