Avian Flu in Pet Birds: Should You Be Concerned?

With any report of avian flu in the news it can be hard not to wonder whether your pet bird is at risk of contracting this serious illness. While the media provides important information about the virus myths and halftruths abound in discussion surrounding the avian flu. So to protect your bird and your family its critical to have a clear view of what the avian flu really is and how you can prevent it.
Avian Flu Facts
There are four primary types of influenza viruses A B C and D. Wild birds commonly carry type A viruses of which there are more than 25 known subtypes according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1 Some of these subtypes can infect other species including dogs and horses. And though its not common for avian flu viruses to infect humans it is possible 2 Thats especially the case with the highly contagious subtype H5N1.

The H5N1 strain of the virus is one of the most serious and can be fatal to both birds and people. According to the World Health Organization the case fatality rate for humans is just under 60 percent 3 Infected birds spread the virus through their saliva mucus feces and blood. The birds also can contaminate their environment with the virus where it can remain on surfaces such as bird feeders and baths for several days. 
While H5N1 has been diagnosed primarily in chickens and other farm birds its possible for virtually any bird to contract the virus 4 And because migratory birds carry the virus it can easily spread all around the world.
The most common symptoms in humans are fever muscle aches sore throat and coughing. And progression to a severe respiratory infection can occur quickly necessitating prompt treatment 5 Moreover many birds will die rapidly before

you even notice signs of illness. 
The Avian Flu and Pet Birds
The risk of contracting avian flu is not particularly high for housebound pet birds 6 However there are two factors that can cause the risk of infection to increase.
The first risk factor is if a pet bird spends any time outdoors where it might come in contact with wild birds. To minimize the risk do not allow your pet outside without supervision. Even if your bird is securely in its cage outdoors watch it closely to keep wild birds and other animals away.
The second risk factor is the sale