Avian influenza, Influenza FAQ

Concerns About Infection Risks After Handling Birds: A Medical Inquiry

Wound infection issues? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, I rescued a chick by picking it up with gloved hands and placing it in a cardboard box. However, when I handed it over to the animal protection personnel, he touched the chick with his bare hands and then handed me a pen. Later, o...

Dr. Yang Zongyan Reply:
If a wound is not properly managed, it can easily lead to infection, resulting in redness, swelling, heat, and pain associated with cellulitis. Therefore, if there are any wound issues, it is advisable to seek medical attention for proper treatment. Thank you.

Managing Concerns About Avian Flu After Possible Exposure

Please advise on what to do during the incubation period of avian influenza? Dear Dr. Liao, I accidentally consumed three pieces of undercooked chicken with blood on December 31, 2018. I am now very concerned about the possibility of contracting avian influenza. I researched onl...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question "What can I do to reduce the severity of infection?" the response is as follows: A: First, refer to the relevant information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) at www.cdc.gov.tw. 1. Can the novel H1N1 influenza virus be tra...

Concerns About Avian Flu After Contact with Pigeon Droppings

The issue of avian influenza? Hello, Doctor: Due to my personal religious beliefs, I placed a Buddha statue on the balcony to expose it to sunlight this afternoon. Although I noticed a lump of pigeon droppings about 15 centimeters in front of the placement area (which seemed to h...

Dr. Chen Mingong Reply:
Hello, the transmission routes of avian influenza: primarily through contact with infected poultry or their feces, and it may also occur through contact with or inhalation of dust containing avian influenza virus. Generally, the incubation period is about five to nine days, with ...

Understanding the Differences Between Avian Influenza and H1N1

Avian Influenza Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about avian influenza. What is the difference between avian influenza and the recent H1N1?

Dr. Ke Zhengqin Reply:
Avian Influenza – The influenza that infects birds is known as avian influenza. This disease is caused by a virus, and patients may exhibit respiratory symptoms, including cough, nasal congestion, and runny nose. Additionally, symptoms outside the respiratory system may occur, su...

Concerns About Eating Undercooked Eggs: Flu and Food Safety Insights

Accidentally consumed undercooked eggs? Hello, Dr. Chen. Last night after work, I came home feeling tired and hungry, so I quickly made a bowl of instant noodles and added an egg to it. The water I used was hot water boiled to 98 degrees Celsius from a regular thermos. After lett...

Dr. Chen Shuliang Reply:
Consuming eggs that are contaminated with Salmonella and not properly cooked can lead to acute gastroenteritis (symptoms include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, etc.). The incubation period is 8-48 hours, and most healthy individuals will experience a self-limiting resolution...

Could Avian Flu Mutate and Combine with Salmonella in Taiwan?

Is it possible for avian influenza variants to combine with Salmonella? My mother advised me that there are many bacteria on egg shells, so it's best to cook eggs thoroughly before consuming them for safety. Avian influenza is about to invade Taiwan, and this virus may mutat...

Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
Eggs are prone to Salmonella contamination, so they should be cooked thoroughly. The avian influenza virus is an RNA virus that can mutate or exchange genetic material between viruses, leading to the emergence of variants. However, since it is not a bacterium, it is unrelated to ...

Understanding Atypical Pneumonia: Symptoms, Prevention, and Health Tips

Atypical pneumonia Information on atypical pneumonia symptoms, related health education knowledge, and preventive measures.

Dr. Chen Jiayu Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin: What are the symptoms of atypical pneumonia known as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)? On March 15, the World Health Organization reported over 150 suspected cases of SARS within a week. This atypical pneumonia has an unclear etiology and can potentially be...