| heal.abstract |
In this review article, a detailed description of avian influenza is presented, concerning both its natural hosts and related susceptible animal species, and emphasizing its effect on public health and its protection. The etymology of 'influenza', the historic background of the disease and the aetiological agent of the disease are analyzed (i.e., nomenclature of influenza viral strains, viral morphology and structure, environmental resistance, the characteristic antigenic drift and shift of the influenza virus and its effect on the host immune response). The recent epizootic avian influenza outbreak of 1996-2006 in Asia is comprehensively presented. Epizootic data on both the global and the national (Greek) distribution of H5N1 and the other type A influenza infections in all susceptible animal species are provided. The clinical signs, macroscopic lesions and laboratory diagnostic measures are described and preventive-surveillance measures for the control of the disease in animal populations are presented (New-FLUBIRD programme, biosecurity measures, bird euthanasia). Special reference is made to vaccination strategies against avian influenza and to DIVA (Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals) vaccines, targeting influenza eradication in the avian population. The importance of avian influenza on public health is emphasized, by setting questions and triggering thought about the possibility of influenza transmission from birds to humans. Reference is made to the relationship between avian influenza and human influenza cases observed during the recent epizootic outbreak, to the protective measures and hygiene recommendations for farm and slaughterhouse employees and for consumers. The biosecurity measures for all poultry-derived food (eggs, poultry meat) and products (raw chicken products, products derived from birds vaccinated against influenza) are presented, and the consumption of well-done cooked poultry-derived products is strongly recommended. Conclusions are presented, along with the four 'Good Practice' golden rules, formulated by the World Health Organization, for consumers to protect themselves from influenza H5N1 viral infection. |
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