March 13, 2006 — -- Following are questions regarding the likelihood of catching bird flu from birds, along with responses from Dr. Christian Sandrock, assistant professor of clinical medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine & Division of Infectious Diseases, UC Davis School of Medicine, and influenza consultant for the California Department of Health Services and Emergency Medical Services Authority.
Q: Are backyard poultry in North America at risk for being exposed to H5N1 from migrating birds? -- Wallace, Conway, Ark.A:
Yes, they are. Backyard poultry are the most likely source since the main poultry producers use strict biosecurity precautions that limit contact with wild birds. But the private or the small farm owner, they do not necessarily follow these precautions, and that may be a source of contact and spread.
Q: I understand that this virus passes between bird to bird. But, just how would it pass from bird to humans? Is this by touch? Is this a virus that can be airborne and caught in this way? -- Valerie, Centertown, Mo.A:
In the investigation of the cases in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, there usually is sufficient contact with blood and bodily secretions of the bird, not just a 2- to 3-foot closeness that can lead to spread of the common cold. Humans who have been infected with H5N1 have had substantial contact with blood, feces, other secretions. There has been no transmission with cooked poultry products.
Q: Can the virus be spread through bird droppings? -- Tambrey, Richmond Hill, Ontario A:
Yes it can, and this is one of the thoughts of spread in Europe, where contaminated chicken feces are used as fertilizer, and this leads to virus spread in other areas and maybe even as a spread back to wild birds, since poultry feces can be used as a fertilizer in ponds and waterways.
Q: Does the virus stay alive on handrails or other places where birds have been? -- Valerie, Centertown, Mo.A:
Yes, the virus can stay alive, but only for several hours. In different environments though, such as in a cold pond, it can stay alive for days.
