DETTOL Germ Protection Centre: 10 Things You Need to Know

10 Things Your Family Needs to Know about the Avian Influenza

The current strain of bird flu virus (H5N1) affects birds and does not easily transfer to humans. So far, the spread of H5N1 virus from person to person has been limited and has not continued beyond one person.
It is possible that the bird flu virus will mutate and begin transmitting between humans. There is no means of determining when, or even if, such a change will occur.
There have been no human cases of H5N1 influenza in the UK.
The reported symptoms in humans range from typical flu-like symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches) and eye infections (conjunctivitis) to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress and other severe and life-threatening complications.
The Government has stockpiled dozens of vaccine against the current bird flu strain (H5N1).
As is the case with seasonal flu viruses, thorough hand washing with soap and water, can help prevent the spread of avian flu germs.
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated with flu secretions will help kill flu germs.
Normal cooking temperatures recommended for cooking poultry will destroy the H5N1 virus. Temperatures of 70 degrees C (160 degrees F) completely kill the virus.
If pandemic influenza appears in the UK it will spread very rapidly as the population will have no immunity to it. While a vaccine is being developed, good hygiene practices will be important in helping to protect your family.
In the event of pandemic influenza, you should follow the recommendation issued by the Department of Health and the Government.