What Are Human Cases of Bird Flu
Human cases of bird flu occur when people are infected with avian influenza viruses, most commonly H5N1 and H7N9. These infections are rare but can cause severe respiratory illness and, in some cases, death.
How People Get Infected
Most human cases are linked to direct or close contact with infected live or dead poultry. Limited human-to-human transmission has been reported, but sustained spread between people is not common.
Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention
Symptoms often include high fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches, and can quickly progress to pneumonia. People with prolonged exposure to birds or outbreak areas face higher risk. The World Health Organization tracks human cases and recommends avoiding contact with sick or dead poultry, practicing hand hygiene, and following food safety guidance.
For updates on confirmed cases and official guidance, see Avian Influenza on WHO.
