Avian influenza infections in wild birds and fur animals – avoid touching sick or dead animals
In Europe, large epidemics caused by the highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5) virus have been found in birds since 2020. In addition to birds, infections have been detected in several mammalian species, as well.
During the summer, several mass deaths of wild birds caused by the avian influenza A(H5) virus have also been detected in Finland. This week, infections have also been confirmed in fur animals in Ostrobothnia.
Avian influenza viruses are poorly transmitted to humans
Infections with the highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5) are extremely rare in humans. Avian influenza viruses are poorly transmitted to humans and transmission usually requires close contact with animals that have contracted the disease or their secretions. Transmissions from one person to another have not been detected. However, the situation is closely monitored both in Finland and abroad.
Avian influenza viruses may cause a mild respiratory tract infection or conjunctivitis in humans, but some avian influenza viruses may also cause serious infections.
Some mammals have had a severe disease and neurological symptoms have been typical of the disease. It is therefore important to take into account the possibility of neurological symptoms in people, as well.
How to prevent transmissions of avian influenza:
- The most important thing is to avoid touching dead and sick birds or other wildlife and surfaces stained by their secretions.
- If you have to touch dead animals, ensure good hand hygiene. Protect yourself with disposable gloves and after taking them off, also wash your hands carefully with water and soap and/or use hand sanitiser. If possible, wear a mask or a respirator and protective glasses when handling the animal. Dispose of the protective equipment after use.
- If you get respiratory tract symptoms or neurological symptoms after you have touched a sick or dead animal, contact health care and mention the possible exposure.
- Report any mass deaths of wild birds to the municipal veterinarian carrying out supervision.
Persons working at fur farms should always contact health care if they have symptoms of a respiratory tract infection or neurological symptoms. In addition, they should wear protective equipment according to instructions and ensure good hand hygiene.
Additional information
What is avian influenza (bird flu)? (THL) (in Finnish)
Niina Ikonen
Chief Specialist
THL
tel. +358 29 524 8413
[email protected]
Anna Katz
Chief Specialist, Head of Unit
THL
tel. +358 29 524 7424
[email protected]
Infectious disease doctor
THL
tel. +358 29 524 8557
tartuntatautilaakari(a)thl.fi
