Influenza

Many Pandemics that have occurred in the past originated from a strain of the influenza virus.

Influenza is caused by the influenza virus and is a contagious infection that affects airways and lungs. At this moment, scientists believe that all strains of human influenza viruses that have occurred in history have originated from birds. These viruses are passed from bird to human in a number of ways: improper hygiene, contact with sick or dead birds/chickens, not cooking chicken throughly, contact with bird faeces from sick or dead birds, or eating sick birds/chickens. There are four types of viruses knows as Influenza A,B,C, and D.

There are 3 groups of influenza: avian, seasonal, and pandemic.

Avian Influenza
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is exclusive to birds and primarily only infects birds. Avian influenza viruses can be transmitted to other birds the same way humans can transmit influenza viruses; sick birds can cough or sneeze and transfer droplets that can be inhaled by other birds. It is possible for humans to get avian influenza viruses; this usually occurs when humans and birds live closely to one another. If there is close contact, it is possible for the virus to evolve so it can infect humans.

Seasonal Influenza
Seasonal influenza viruses occur yearly, usually in the winter months, and infects humans on a smaller scale than a pandemic would. Most seasonal influenza viruses have vaccines; this is because the components of the seasonal influenza virus are typically known and vaccines can be created accordingly. Seasonal influenza originates from Influenza types A and B.

Pandemic Influenza
Influenza pandemics occur when there is an emergence of a new influenza virus strain that spreads around the world. The reason for the rapid spread is due to the fact that most people will not have immunity to the new virus. Only type A influenzas can cause a pandemic and once this new virus is transmitted, it will be easily transmitted between human-to-human. Without containment of the new virus, the impact could be detrimental, so it is important to learn about the management of pandemics.