So you think you’ve got bird flu – a guide

After a Fort Smith raven caught bird flu, the NWT’s health authority has explained what to do if you ever think you’ve been exposed.

Human infection is rare but can happen.

Some scientists have expressed concern that avian flu could make more of a leap into humans at some point in future, though so far there is no clear evidence of human-to-human transmission.

The virulent strain of the flu spreading through Canadian wildlife and farm animals right now is known as H5N1.

At the moment, to have been exposed to an infected animal, you would almost certainly need to have handled infected poultry or livestock without protective equipment, the territory’s health authority said on Friday.

It’s also possible that you might happen across a dead or sick bird around your community or out on the land. (The GNWT has advised that you stay away from the bird in those circumstances.)

“In humans, illness can be mild but also has a high risk of progressing to severe illness, even in otherwise healthy people,” the health authority stated.

“If you have been exposed to a dead or sick bird in the past 10 days and develop any respiratory symptoms, or are in the future, please contact your healthcare provider.”

The symptoms of avian flu are similar to seasonal flu, the health authority said – the likes of fever, cough, shortness of breath, a sore throat, headaches and fatigue.

You might also have diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or seizures.

“Symptoms usually show up within a week after exposure and can progress quickly,” the health authority wrote.

“Early treatment, ideally within the first 48 hours after even mild symptoms begin, is very important in reducing the chance of severe illness. However, if you have any symptoms,  it is never too late to seek care.”

If you’ve done something that makes you think you might have been exposed to bird flu, you can call 811 first for health advice from trained nurses.

Lastly, the health authority said pets should be kept away from dead birds.

“Health Canada advises keeping cats and dogs away from dead birds to reduce the risk of infection,” Friday’s advisory stated.

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