If you’ve been following the news in the U.S this year, reports of chicken farms closing due to bird flu have been many. A more disturbing story has emerged in Illonois where it is reported that many wild bird are also being affected. Bird flu is not a rare sickness, as it is common among wild birds. Many carry the disease and recover completely. The Avian infection however, is much more serious. The low form of this disease causes only mild sickness and is hard to recognize. What is worrying for us is that the virus is adapting.
The Times reports “The highly pathogenic form spreads faster through flocks of birds. It affects multiple internal organs and causes death in 90 to 100 of victims with 48 hours. This is the type that our area is experiencing. So far experts are saying the bird flu is not contagious to humans. There are reports however; that claim these viruses are changing. Viruses that are constantly changing can adapt over time and can spread to humans. I don’t know much about this but learned some about it in college. Folks who are have allergic reactions to flu shots could be susceptible. The serum in some flu shots contains products from eggs.” news report
In Australia to protect our children from the elements, many schools have installed undercover learning areas, or COLA’s as they are commonly called. These shelter have rafters which make a perfect perching place for wild birds. If this virus comes to Australia in Spring, our children are in danger. “Many of the private schools have installed bird proofing in these undercover learning areas” says Alwyn Lomas, bird proof installer. “What is concerning are the schools with low funding who can’t afford to bird proof the undercover areas.”.
If you have concerns for your school and would like a free quote to protect your children in advance of Spring, go to www.birdproofingaustralia.com.au or call 1300 136 125.
