Since the recent outbreak of a new strain of avian influenza (bird flu) among humans in China was announced many people are concerned about the risk posed to themselves and their families. As a public health physician and recent traveller to China I thought it important to provide informed advice about the outbreak to other families.
The World Health Organisation reports that since April the 17th 2013 there have been 82 patients confirmed as having H7N9 Avian influenza reported in China. Some of these cases have been associated with contact with poultry or an animal “wet market” environment. There have been no reported cases outside of China and to date, no human to human transmission has been reported. The World Health organisation has not advised any restrictions to travel or trade be applied
Avian influenza is sometimes present in wild birds, and has caused outbreaks of illness among domestic birds such as chicken and poultry, and rarely disease among humans. Among humans it may cause a serious illness or death, although there is evidence that this particular strain may cause only a mild illness among some people.
This strain of H7N9 influenza is is distinct from previous H1N5 avian influenza outbreaks and distinct from the H1N1 swine influenza (that caused the pandemic of “swine flu”). It is a new strain of avian influenza.
The seasonal influenza vaccine does not offer protection against avian influenza. The seasonal influenza vaccine does however offer protection against the vastly more common seasonal influenza and is recommended for pregnant women and those with pre-existing illness.
The Australian Department of Health and Ageing is recommending the following to travellers and expats living in China:
Do not touch birds, pigs, or other animals.
-Avoid touching animals whether they are alive or dead.
-Avoid live bird or poultry markets.
-Avoid other markets or farms with animals.
Eat food that is fully cooked and served hot.
-Eat hard-cooked eggs (not runny)
-Don’t eat or drink dishes that include blood from any animal.
-Don’t eat food from street vendors.
Practice hygiene and cleanliness.
-Wash your hands often.
-If soap and water aren’t available, clean your hands with hand sanitiser.
See a doctor if you become sick during or after travel to China.
-See a doctor right away if you become sick with fever, coughing or difficulty breathing.
Some unethical companies are seeking to profit from people’s fear and are seeling fake remedies. Anti-viral medication may be warranted if a person is infected with avian flu as a means to decreasing the duration of symptoms, but should only be prescribed by a doctor.
Any Australian planning to travel internationally should check the SmartTraveller website for country specific advice prior to traveling.
About the author: Danielle Esler is a medical doctor and specialist in public health medicine. This is a personal blog but she does occasionally put on her professional hat to update families on travel health related issues. This is one of those occasions.
Reference: Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in China (April 2013). Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.
