Cases of H7N9 bird flu in
China rose sharply over the past week, resulting in 63 reported infections and
14 deaths as of April 15. The virus had been restricted to Shanghai and other
regions on the eastern seaboard until recently, when cases began showing up in
northern and central regions of China, fueling fears that the flu could spread
into other parts of Asia.
This strain of avian flu is
particularly worrisome because many of the reported cases have been mild and at
least one instance of the virus has been asymptomatic. The mild cases lead
experts to believe that the actual number of infections may be much greater
than the number reported, making it difficult to diffuse the spread of H7N9 if
human-to-human transmission is occurring.
According to China Daily, advocates of traditional Chinese medicine believe
the herb banlangen can prevent and treat avian flu, and the herb is quickly
becoming a hot commodity in Chinese pharmacies. While pharmacological studies indicate
that banlangen has antibacterial and antiviral properties, CDC offers
these tips for protecting yourself from H7N9 when traveling to China:
·
Do not touch birds and other animals. If infected, animals can be hazardous to touch
whether alive or dead. Avoid farms and markets where birds and other livestock
are present.
·
Eat only fully cooked food. Avoid undercooked poultry, meat, and eggs, as well
as any meat containing blood and any food from street vendors.
·
Practice hygiene. Wash hands often, use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
and avoid touching your face. Avoid close contact with others and cover your
nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing.
·
Seek medical attention immediately if you become
sick. Symptoms can include fever,
coughing and shortness of breath. If sickness begins after returning to the U.S.,
tell your doctor about your travel to China. If onset of illness occurs while
in China, delay travel home until you have recovered and check this list of Chinese hospitals and clinics accredited by the Joint Commission
International.
Visit the CDC’s website to learn more about their efforts to fight H7N9. Find more of the
latest news about H7N9 avian flu here.