Summary of Avian Influenza (HPAI) Situation & Recommendations (Based on Provided Text)
This text details the current situation regarding Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in France, focusing on risks to both animal and human health, and outlines preventative measures. Here’s a breakdown:
Key Concerns:
* Spread to Mammals: HPAI viruses are infecting mammals (foxes, otters) in France, increasing the risk of wider spread.
* Human Exposure Risk: While currently “low” for the general population, the risk is “low to moderate” for those working on poultry farms.
* Intense viral Circulation: High levels of HPAI are circulating in France, especially in duck and turkey farms.
* Potential for New virus Strain: Co-infection with avian and seasonal flu viruses could lead to a new, more easily transmissible strain.
Measures in Place:
* Farm Biosecurity: Reinforced biosecurity measures are in effect, including sheltering poultry, especially in affected departments (Vendée, Loire-Atlantique, Maine-et-Loire, Deux-Sèvres).
* Compulsory Vaccination: Farms with over 250 ducks are required to vaccinate against HPAI to reduce outbreaks and viral pressure.
* Animal Health Monitoring: Close monitoring of farmed animals for early disease detection.
* Human Health surveillance (SAGA): Active surveillance of people exposed to viruses is being extended nationwide to identify potential human cases quickly.
* Healthcare Professional Awareness: Doctors have been alerted to be vigilant for potential human cases.
Recommendations for Professionals Exposed to Animals/Contaminated Environments:
* Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear protective clothing, respiratory masks, goggles/visors, and waterproof gloves.
* Hand Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after contact.
* If Symptoms develop (within 10 days of exposure):
* Immediately contact a doctor, informing them of potential exposure.
* Get a PCR flu test.
* Practice barrier gestures (mask, handwashing, ventilation, disinfection) while awaiting results.
* Seasonal Flu Vaccination: Strongly recommended and covered by Health insurance. Extended to veterinarians, departmental agents visiting farms, and wildlife disease surveillance personnel.
Recommendations for the General Public:
* Do NOT touch dead or sick wild animals.
Overall Message: Vigilance and preventative measures are crucial to minimize the risk of human infection and the emergence of new influenza strains.
