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While avian influenza can spread rapidly within the bird and poultry populations, bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans. But sporadic human infections of avian influenza, also known as bird flu virus, have occurred. Since the recent detection of the presence of avian influenza at one farm in the Orange Walk District, personnel from the Belize Agricultural Health Organization (BAHA) have introduced guidelines to avoid a spread of the disease. But how serious is avian influenza to humans? There are several strains of bird flu, including the H-Five-N-One and the H-Seven-N-Nine strains that have infected humans. When it does infect humans, it can be deadly. Today, the Director of Public Health and Wellness, Doctor Melissa Diaz-Musa told us that we’re still in the process of identifying what strain of the disease is present at the farm. In the meantime, disposing of the chickens will help to prevent further spread, she assured.
