Minas Gerais registers first case of avian flu in a duck

The first case of bird flu in a free-ranging duck, in the city of Pará de Minas, in the state of Minas Gerais.

The discovery aroused concerns among the population and government institutions, leading the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) to pronounce on the matter.

According to MAPA, the variant found in this specific case is H9N2, which is classified as a avian disease of low pathogenicity.

This information brings initial relief, since the presence of a highly pathogenic strain could pose a greater risk of spreading the contagion.

How does avian flu “work”?

In the complex world of viruses, mutations are natural events that occur as a result of errors in genetic materials. These evolutionary processes are more common in less stable organisms, such as RNA viruses, and have the potential to raise significant concerns.

Influenza, in addition to being highly dangerous due to its mutations, has a high mortality rate in humans and can be transmitted through contact with birds.

This viral group has been the object of constant attention by health agencies due to the H5N1 variant, transmitted by wild ducks, which caused an epidemic with high mortality rates.

The recent discovery of the new H9N2 strain brought additional concerns, as there is a possibility of its association with the resurgence of H5N1.

This new strain was identified in 19 birds located in the states of Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro and Rio Grande do Sul. The detection of this variant raises questions about the stability of Brazil as a country free of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HAI).

symptoms and treatment
The symptoms caused by influenza A are very similar to those seen in a the flu common, for example. This makes it difficult to identify and treat it, as antivirals within 2 days after the onset of symptoms can be effective.

Main symptoms:

• Cough;
• Fever;
• Sore throat;
• Muscle aches;
• Headache;
• Shortness of breathe.

When noticing the presence of at least two of these symptoms, turn on the alert. If the discomfort persists for more than three days, seek medical attention as soon as possible.