2 of 15Another key warning sign of a bird flu case is a cough, which gives doctors another clue that the person may have the avian flu. It is a nonspecific symptom that can have a diverse range of aetiologies. But, as it happens along the avian flu route, it should also be considered. Bird flu has some respiratory symptoms. Infected patients develop a dry cough, which is defined by the absence of secretions, i.e., the lack of sputum. One of the main characteristics of this kind of cough is a sense of dryness or scratchiness in the throat. A dry cough can be very irritating.
When doctors notice people with this sign, they may also be asked about other important pieces of information. Bird flu, if it occurs, should have a history of human contact with birds. It also pertains to food such as chicken and other poultry, which may have been tainted. The virus may have also been contracted when traveling to regions of increased infection. If patients confirm the doctor’s suspicions, tests to show whether the bird flu virus is present are obligatory.
