2 of 13

Write now Article Tools

The Traveling Bird Flu

It all starts with that unsuspecting bird, and that tiny little virus. Viruses are germs that need to attach to a living host in order to multiply. The bird flu virus attaches itself to birds, especially ones that like water. It then begins to invade the surrounding cells, making the bird sick.

Birds Infecting Other Birds

Migrating Birds

Birds tend to travel. They have wings to fly, and some of them like to go long distances. If a bird becomes infected with avian influenza, the bird flu virus, it can spread the disease wherever it goes. Birds that migrate are able to expose birds from other countries to the virus.

Flocks and Farms

Birds contained on farms are in danger of infecting the rest of the flock. The circumstance of close quarters allows the virus to spread quickly. Farmers have been known to slaughter entire flocks to prevent further contamination in their local communities. They also must sterilize the entire area, since cages and nests may be contaminated.

Intestinal Waste

The virus seems to thrive better in the intestines of birds. The flu is classified as a respiratory illness. However, some strains of the flu survive better in the intestinal tract. Avian flu is one of them. As it grows in the intestines, it can be discarded through waste products of the birds it infects. Other birds coming into contact with these eliminations can become contaminated.

Mucous Wastes

Birds also spread the avian flu virus through saliva and nasal drips. If they get sick, they become congested, creating more mucous their bodies must discard. Healthy birds get exposed to the germs when they land on surfaces that have been infected. If their immune systems are weak, they too could develop and spread the disease.

Molting Birds

Molting birds carrying the avian flu virus contaminate surfaces with their feathers. As the germs grow, they invade entire body systems. When the virus is released through waste of any kind, even feathers, the possibility for contamination exist.

Carriers

Birds with healthy immune systems are able to defend against the avian flu virus. However, if they come into contact with infected surfaces, they may become carriers of the illness without getting sick. Other birds more susceptible to illness may then get exposed to the virus through waste products from a healthy bird. If their systems cannot defend against the germs, they will get sick.

Birds Infecting People

Birds infect people with the avian flu virus the same way they infect other birds.

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about How the bird flu virus is spread?
We want to hear your view. Write now!