What are the symptoms of avian influenza (H5N1) in humans?
When humans have acquired avian influenza viruses from birds, the symptoms have ranged from typical flu-like symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat and muscle aches) and eye infections (conjunctivitis), to viral pneumonia, acute respiratory distress and other severe and life-threatening complications. Some people have also had diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, chest pain and bleeding from the nose and gums in the early stages of infection. Unlike seasonal influenza, which usually only causes mild respiratory symptoms in most people, avian influenza (H5N1) infection can cause rapid deterioration (within 1 to 3 days) and high fatality. Viral pneumonia and multi-organ failure have been common among people who have become ill with avian influenza (H5N1). Children and young adults seem to be most susceptible. However, globally the incidence of avian influenza (H5N1) in humans remains low. Is there a vaccine to protect people from avian influenza (H5N1)? Yes – a hum
