is there a vaccine for bird flu

Originally Published: And new vaccines will be needed fast if the bird flu virus mutates to …

(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)

Two types, H5N1 and H7N9, have infected some people during outbreaks in Asia, Africa, the Pacific, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. For more information about the various strains of influenza, or if you suspect you or a family member may be ill, speaking with a health care provider is strongly encouraged.Back to the strains at hand: avian flu is caused by certain influenza strains; however, H5N1 and H7N9 are the most commonly found in humans. American Lung Association: "Cold and Flu Guidelines: Influenza." SOURCES: CDC. American Academy of Family Physicians: "Bird Flu (Avian Flu)." Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. CDC: "Estimating Seasonal Influenza-Associated Deaths in the United States: CDC Study Confirms Variability of Flu." Transmission of both strains occurs when the virus is released in the feces, saliva, and nasal secretions of infected birds. the vaccine has been purchased by the u. Avian influenza - the "bird flu" - is a virus that infects birds, particularly wild birds such as ducks and geese, but can spread to domestic poultry, such as chickens and turkeys. Often, the symptoms are similar to the In some cases, bird flu can cause serious complications and death.

National Institutes of Health. Usually bird flu viruses only infect other birds.

Currently, there’s only a vaccine for the H5N1 strain, but studies show the vaccine only produced antibodies in 45 percent of individuals at a level sufficient to reduce the risk of infection. Moreover, some people have taken this antiviral drug in the past without completing the prescribed regimen, so both H5N1 and H7N9 strains of influenza have developed some resistance to oseltamivir.

As such, even if an epidemic is declared and the current vaccine is effective, it would take approximately four to six weeks for researchers to produce more of the vaccines for human consumption.If someone does become infected with avian flu, there are antiviral drugs that can offer effective treatment. Bird flu viruses infect birds, including chickens, other poultry, and wild birds such as ducks.

There are numerous different strains of avian influenza; however, most do not cause illness in people. THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. AAAS (aaas.org).

This vaccine isn't available to the public, but the U.S. government is stockpiling it and will distribute it in the event of an outbreak. Uninfected birds then catch the virus from contact with contaminated secretions, excretions, or surfaces that have been contaminated by the virus, become contaminated themselves, and further the cycle of infection.To protect against the bird flu, many people have sought out newly-developed vaccines. plus, it's important to know that the regular influenza vaccine does not provide protection against avian influenza or bird flu. , January 2011. What is an i…

There is no commercially available vaccine for humans against bird flu strains. Plus, it's important to know that the regular influenza vaccine does not provide protection against avian influenza or bird flu. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. CDC: "Estimating Seasonal Influenza-Associated Deaths in the United States: CDC Study Confirms Variability of Flu." Any viral replication inhibitor?

THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE.

The H5N1 strain can infect birds, other animals and people. Birds, just like people, get the flu. GlaxoSmithKline.

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases: "Flu (Influenza): What Are Seasonal Flu, Avian (Bird) Flu and Pandemic Flu?" It is rare for people to get infected with bird flu viruses, but it can happen. You might also have some peace of mind knowing that many global health organizations such as the Remember that prevention is key, and being aware of what you consume and taking simple measures such as All materials on this website are copyrighted. Furthermore, as compared to H7N9, H5N1 tends to infect more humans, but has a lower fatality rate. It may be used in the event of an outbreak only. AAAS (aaas.org).

While there is a vaccine, it only provides limited protection against one strain of the virus. New Scientist. Is there any vaccine for avian flu?

It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health.