Growing up a Catholic, I was taught to believe several things that defied gravity, defied physics, and personal experience. And if I doubted these fantasies, I’d go to hell and burn for eternity. Phew! I’m glad I left that cult behind.
From the CDC: As a general precaution, people should avoid direct contact with wild birds and observe wild birds only from a distance, whenever possible. People should also avoid contact between their pets (e.g., pet birds, dogs and cats) with wild birds. Don’t touch sick or dead birds, their feces or litter, or any surface or water source (e.g., ponds, waterers, buckets, pans, troughs) that might be contaminated with their saliva, feces, or any other bodily fluids without wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). More information about specific precautions to take for preventing the spread of bird flu viruses between animals and people is available at Prevention and Antiviral Treatment of Bird Flu Viruses in People. Additional information about the appropriate PPE to wear is available at Backyard Flock Owners: Take Steps to Protect Yourself from Avian Influenza.
People Who Have Had Direct Contact with Infected or Potentially Infected Animals
During outbreaks of bird flu in wild birds and/or poultry, people who have had direct contact with infected or potentially infected animals, including sick animals that might have eaten bird flu-infected birds, should monitor their health for fever and symptoms of infection.
Signs and Symptoms may include:
Fever (Temperature of 100°F [37.8°C] or greater) or feeling feverish/chills*CoughSore throatDifficulty breathing/Shortness of breathConjunctivitis (eye tearing, redness, irritation, or discharge from eye)HeadachesRunny or stuffy noseMuscle or body achesDiarrhea*Fever may not always be present
Call your state/local health department immediately if you develop any of these signs or symptoms during the 10-days after your exposure to an infected or potentially infected animal. Discuss your potential exposure and ask about testing. If testing is recommended, isolate as much as possible until test results come back and/or you have recovered from your illness.
Oh baby, hold your nose when you pass that pig farm.