Bird Flu : Health, Safety and Contingency Guidelines

Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Symptoms, transmission and treatment. 3. Human infection with Avian influenza viruses. 4. Avian influenza in birds and animals. 5. Guidance for protecting workers against Avian flu. 6. Guidance for travelers. 7. Guidelines of WHO about bird flu. 8. Influenza pandemic contingency plans. 9. Frequently asked questions. Glossary of terms. Index.

"Asia, Africa and Europe have in the recent years witnessed unprecedented outbreaks of Avian influenza resulting in the deaths and culling of more than 200 million poultry resulting in huge economic losses besides adversely affecting farmers, households, the poultry industry, tourism and trade relations between countries and nations.

Many countries in the South-East Asia Region are on the flight paths of migrating birds, some of which could be carrying Avian influenza virus. In view of the epidemiological situation, all counties in the region are vulnerable to the influenza pandemic.

Threat of world influenza pandemic has never been imminent. To combat this grave threat, it is essential for countries to be well prepared. Experts predict it is only a matter of time before a bird flu strain will mutate and become transmissible between humans. Once that happens, a pandemic (worldwide epidemic) like the Spanish flu that resulted in more than 50 million deaths overwhelming hospital and medical services could be inevitable. 

The present book Bird Flu : Health, Safety and Contingency Guidelines is divided in 8 chapters along with a detailed glossary of terms and comprehensive index to clarify all the technical and general concepts about this deadly virus. WHO guidelines are provided about this virus in detailed manner. The prevention and preparedness of activities that facilitate the response and recovery during and after the influenza pandemic are important aspects that are included in this book."