Avian Influenza: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Avian Influenza?
An infectious disease doctor (a specialist in infections) treats severe avian influenza, and a primary care doctor can manage mild cases and testing. People who work with poultry or cattle may also see an occupational health doctor. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is avian influenza?
Avian influenza, also called bird flu, is an infection caused by influenza A viruses. These viruses occur naturally in wild birds, such as ducks. They also infect domestic poultry, including chickens and turkeys. Sometimes the viruses change so they can spread to other animals and, in rare cases, to people.
A few types have caused most infections in people. These are the H5N1, H7N9, and H5N6 viruses. H5N1 has also spread to dairy cows in the United States and has infected some dairy workers. Since February 2024, 71 human cases of A(H5) bird flu have been reported in the United States. The public health risk is still low.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the virus strain. They can range from mild to severe. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all. Flu-like symptoms include:
- Fever, though not everyone gets one.
- Cough.
- Sore throat.
- Runny or stuffy nose.
- Muscle or body aches.
- Headaches.
- Eye redness (conjunctivitis, an eye infection).
- Trouble breathing.
- Diarrhea.
Severe illness can include pneumonia. People with severe illness might need to be hospitalized.
Causes and who gets it
You can get bird flu by touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after handling infected live or dead birds. You can also get it by touching contaminated surfaces, or by breathing in droplets or dust with the virus. It is very rare, but bird flu can spread from other animals, such as cattle, and even from another person.
Higher-risk groups include poultry workers, animal handlers, wildlife biologists, veterinarians, and people who travel to countries where bird flu is present. Eating properly cooked poultry or eggs has not caused any infections. Drinking raw (unpasteurized) milk is risky, though.
How doctors diagnose it
Laboratory testing is used to diagnose bird flu. It is usually done with a nasal or throat swab (a sample taken with a soft swab). Testing is more accurate in the first few days of illness.
If you think you were exposed to bird flu, notify your provider before the office visit. This lets the staff protect themselves and other patients. Wear a mask or respirator on the way and during your visit. Severely ill people may need chest X-rays and other tests.
Treatment
Bird flu is treated with antiviral medicines. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) may make the illness less severe. It is important to start them as soon as possible. People exposed to the virus may also be given antivirals to prevent illness.
People with severe infection may need hospital care. Some need a breathing machine. Sick people should be kept separate from others. Providers recommend a flu shot, which may cut down the chance of the viruses mixing.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if you develop flu-like symptoms within 10 days of handling infected birds, being around infected cattle, or being in an area with a known avian flu outbreak. Call before the visit and wear a mask. The disease can be fatal, so do not delay care. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or confusion.
To prevent infection, avoid touching sick animals and surfaces with their droppings. Use protective clothing and masks if you work with birds or dairy cows. Avoid raw milk and undercooked poultry.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can evaluate flu-like symptoms, arrange testing, and start antiviral treatment early. When illness is severe, a person may need to be hospitalized and sometimes placed on a breathing machine.
Common questions
Can I get bird flu from eating chicken or eggs?
No one has gotten avian flu from eating properly cooked animals or animal products. The risk comes from raw or undercooked poultry, eggs, and raw (unpasteurized) milk from infected animals.
Is there a vaccine for bird flu?
There is no vaccine available to the public. The government keeps a vaccine for H5N1 in a stockpile. It could be used if the virus starts spreading among people.
How soon must treatment start?
Antiviral medicines such as oseltamivir should be started as soon as possible after you get sick. That is why you should contact a provider early if you may have bird flu.
Who is most at risk?
Poultry workers, animal handlers, veterinarians, and people exposed to sick or dead animals. Farm workers around infected dairy cattle are also at higher risk.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Avian influenza: Medical Encyclopedia
- MedlinePlus - Bird Flu | Influenza A | Avian Flu
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - A(H5) Bird Flu: Current Situation
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
