Overview / History

Influenza A(H10N7) strain does not cause severe disease in birds. It was previously detected in birds in the United States, South Africa and Canada. Human cases were detected in Egypt in 2004 and in Australia in 2010. All cases had mild disease and recovered, and they were linked to infection in poultry.

Mode of spread

Animals

Transmission

Much remains unknown about this virus. Transmission is presumed to be through direct contact with infected birds as all cases to date have had exposure to poultry. Given this is a "low pathogenic" strain in birds, infected birds do not appear sick and do not show any symptoms. This makes it harder to identify in the community.

Symptoms

Like other bird flu, A(H10N7) also resembles ordinary flu. The known cases suffered mild flu-like symptoms along with conjunctivitis (eye redness). In all other strains of avian flu, patients may experience a sudden fever, cough, sore throat and muscle pain. A severe lower respiratory tract infection, and even pneumonia, may then develop. Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhoea, may occur. Neurologic symptoms, such as headache and convulsions, have been described.

Complications are not known to occur with A(H10N7). In other strains, severe infection leads to severe pneumonia and respiratory distress. It can cause multiple organ failure leading to death.

Diagnosis

Clinical signs and history of contact with poultry hint towards bird flu. Laboratory tests on respiratory samples can help to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Certain antiviral medications have demonstrated efficacy against the A(H5N1) virus when administered during the early stages of infection. Laboratory data suggests that the A(H7N9) virus may also be treatable with antiviral drugs. However, due to the novelty of the A(H10N7) virus strain in humans, there is limited information regarding the treatment of infected individuals.

Vaccination

No vaccine is available.

Prevention

You should avoid contact with birds and other animals, and their environment.

• Do not go to live animal markets, poultry farms or pig farms.
• Do not handle any birds, even if they appear well. Prevent children from doing so.
• Avoid touching any surfaces that may be contaminated by bird droppings. Do not swim in any body of water that is used by birds.

Always maintain high levels of personal hygiene.

• Frequent hand washing is very important. Wash hands before and after food preparation and before eating.
• Thoroughly cook all poultry and poultry products, including eggs.

Consider having an influenza vaccination. Although it will not protect you against bird flu, it reduces your risk of a "co-infection" with human influenza.

Risk to travellers

Travellers who avoid live poultry markets and direct contact with birds are at very low risk.

Further Reading