At a time, Bird Flu also known as ‘Avian Influenza’ has spread in valley; renowned virologist, Dr Nisar-Ul-Hassan on Saturday said the chances of humans contracting the virus from infected birds cannot be downplayed or ruled out completely.
It is pertinent to mention that authorities sounded alert in parts of Kashmir after crow carcasses tested positive for Avian Influenza. Pertinently, poultry sample also tested positive for the virus in north Kashmir’s Baramulla. The outbreak of H5N1 among crows, pigeons and some migratory birds has sparked fear among masses who are yet to prevail over the novel corona virus.
Renowned virologist who also heads Doctors Association of Kashmir (DAK) as its president, Dr. Nisar-Ul-Hassan said the chances of humans contracting H5N1 from the infected birds cannot be downplayed.
The influenza expert also said that H5N1 virus can jump the species and infect humans from the infected bird. He said people who come into close proximity to infected birds become most vulnerable to the virus.
He said there is every possibility of humans getting exposed to Bird Flu in case a man come into the direct contact of infected birds or cook them in ‘unhygienic’ manner. DAK president was however quick to add the virus dies right away, if exposed to the temperature over 70 degrees Celsius.
“People need not to panic, as there is no case of human having contracted the virus in Kashmir as yet. Yes we have to be extra vigilant and avoid direct contact with infected birds. We can defeat this virus, protocols are strictly adhered to,” Dr. Nisar-Ul-Hassan added.
He said veterinarian’s have potential to be exposed to Avian Influenza as long as they avoid using protective gears while dealing with birds, dead or alive.
DAK president further said the chances of humans contracting bird flu from consuming poultry gets extremely low, if cooked properly.
“We are yet to come out the situation, we experienced in the aftermath of the novel corona virus, though, in Kashmir, humans are yet to be exposed to H5N1, but we cannot downplay the threat until and unless we take follow necessary protocols’ in letter and spirit,” he said