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Key facts on bird flu

* Avian influenza viruses are readily transmitted from farm to farm by mechanical means, such as by contaminated equipment, vehicles, feed, cages or clothing. * The virus spreads to humans through air, and direct contact with birds' saliva and feces. * The incubation period of the virus in humans is between one and three days. Highly pathogenic viruses can survive for long periods in the environment. * Symptoms in humans include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, eye infections, acute respiratory distress, viral pneumonia.

Source: World Health Organization