Bird/Avian Flu Outbreak: WHO Issues Advisory on Consumption of Poultry Products

GUWAHATI: According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), H5N1 is a type of influenza virus that causes "highly infectious, severe respiratory disease in birds called avian influenza." However, there is no evidence that Avian Influenza or H5N1 viruses can be transmitted to humans via the consumption of contaminated poultry products.

With the reports of deaths of poultry birds due to bird flu, concerns have been raised over the consumption of chicken and eggs. As a result, the government has no option but to be on high alert as more than a dozen states have already been affected by the H5N1 virus. A major fall in the prices of poultry and related products has been observed in some regions due to the outbreak.

However, WHO says that it is safe to eat chicken and eggs as long as it is properly prepared and cooked. Normal temperatures used for cooking can kill the virus as it is sensitive to heat. One needs to cook meat and egg completely before eating to avoid any complication.

As a standard precaution, WHO recommends that poultry and its related products should always be prepared following good hygienic practices and that poultry meat should be properly cooked.

One must wash hands with lukewarm water for at least 20 seconds after handling eggs or poultry while cooking as Avian flu also spreads from touching contaminated poultry. One is also advised to avoid consumption of runny eggs around the bird flu outbreak and should ensure that the egg yolk is firm and hence fit for consumption.

"There are death reports of wild and migratory birds due to bird flu at some places. There is no need to panic. It is advised to fully cook meat and eggs before eating. States have been informed and are being provided with necessary help and support," tweeted Shandilya Giriraj Singh, Minister of Animal husbandry, fisheries and dairying on January 6.

In addition to this, Nepal has also banned the import of poultry and poultry products from India. The importers in Nepal are strictly prohibited from importing live birds in order to curb the spread of the H5N1 virus. Although no single case of the ongoing bird flu has been market in Nepal so far.

Also read: Bird Flu Outbreak: Assam Govt Imposes Temporary Ban on Import of Poultry

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