How humans are infected
Although avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans, some strains can cause disease in humans. Humans can become infected with avian influenza through contact with live or dead infected birds and their excretions. Infection in humans can be asymptomatic, or can include symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, respiratory distress, and pneumonia. In some cases, people can die from avian influenza.
People do not get infected with avian influenza by eating chicken meat and eggs if they are properly cooked.
Current strains of avian influenza do not appear to transmit easily between humans.
If avian influenza becomes a significant threat to our human population, the Australian Government will activate the Australian Health Management Plan for Pandemic Influenza. The plan provides direction for all jurisdiction agencies and emergency services to manage the threat.
Stay safe while travelling overseas
Talk with your doctor as part of your routine pre-travel health checks before departing on overseas travel.
While travelling overseas, avoid contact with live birds, including chickens, geese and ducks on farms and in marketplaces.
Avoid contact with sick or dead wild or domestic birds and practice good hygiene.
Only eat properly cooked poultry and eggs. Cooking destroys the virus in poultry and eggs.
While travelling, it is recommended you regularly check the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Travel Bulletin. Also check specific travel advice for information about any change to countries and regions you are visiting.