Bird flu symptoms in humans to look out for following outbreaks around the UK

Yahoo

24-05-2025

Bird flu has made a comeback across the UK with the latest outbreak reported in Dorset
This resurgence has raised questions about the disease.
Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, discussed the details about bird flu.
Dr Grant clarified: "Bird flu, or avian flu, as it's also known, is an infectious disease that's passed among birds.
"While most strains are harmless to humans, there are some instances where the flu can infect and even kill individuals. This is rare, but it does happen, with one person dying in the US in January."
He further explained that there have been four strains since 1997 that have prompted the culling of infected birds to limit the spread among wildlife and humans.
These strains are believed to have caused concern in 1997, 2013, 2014 and 2016.
READ: Peregrine falcon dies after contracting bird flu
For the infective strains, transmission can occur via contact with infected birds; whether dead or alive, touching their droppings or consuming infected meat.
Dr Grant said: "If an individual believes they have contracted the illness, they should contact the NHS on 111 where a professional can assess symptoms over the phone.
"In-person, a doctor can provide antiviral medicines that can help reduce the intensity of the illness, but quarantining is crucial in the meantime to minimise spread."
Describing the symptoms, Dr Grant said: "While symptoms can range from person to person, there are some incredibly common ones experienced by most infected people.
"In rare cases, the flu can even be symptomless, making it difficult to identify while still transmitting it to unsuspecting individuals."
The most frequently reported symptom is a high fever of at least 38 degrees Celsius. This affects the body's temperature-regulating system, leading to fevers that can hinder daily tasks such as work.
READ: Dorset warning after bird flu detected in sheep
The gastrointestinal tract is also affected, resulting in diarrhoea. If not managed correctly, diarrhoea can lead to dehydration which worsens the symptoms.
Dr Grant recommended Dioralyte Sachets to combat this.
Bird flu can also cause changes in eye health, such as conjunctivitis and muscle aches.
"The immune system releases white blood cells to fight the flu, which can cause inflammation, muscle pain and aches."
Common flu symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath can also occur.
"As bird flu continues to pose a risk around the UK, understanding the symptoms relating to the illness is crucial, helping people identify and avoid the harmful condition," Dr Grant said.
"It'll be intriguing to see how farmers manage the spread over the next few months."