The newest strain of avian flu (H7N9) has claimed another life, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). While only 16 cases of the virus have been documented in China, the worrisome side of the outbreak is that 6 people have died and several people remain hospitalized. The virus is transmitted directly from chickens to humans. Pigeons and ducks are also being looked at as possible carriers. So far, patients have ranged in ages from 4 to 87. No direct human to human transmission has been documented, but investigations continue.
Experienced health professionals are no strangers to avian flu. Nearly a decade ago, the spread of the H5N1 strain of avian flu initiated world-wide pandemic preparedness responses and exercises. The flu virus killed 60% of the 622 people who contracted it and spread over 15 countries. Health officials are being guardedly optimistic about this new strain of avian flu. H7N9 does not seem to be spreading rapidly and no human to human transmission has been documented in family situations where the patient was living in close proximity to other people.
The illness causes severe respiratory symptoms with fever, shortness of breath and coughing. While no travel restrictions are in place, the CDC does recommend that travelers to China avoid contact with live chickens, as in open air markets. Once cooked, the poultry meat is fine to eat, according to health authorities. Poultry that are affected by the virus outwardly appear to be healthy so it is hard for officials to track which populations of birds are carrying the disease.
Luckily H7N9 does appear to responding to antiviral medication if caught in time. For healthcare workers, being vigilant and practicing good hand-washing habits is the best prevention of the spread of most diseases, H7N9 included. Nurses and other direct care providers are often the best ally a patient has for a rapid response to a developing illness. Asking good questions about possible exposure when a patient presents with respiratory illness is now vital to saving lives for those exposed to the H7N9 strain of avian flu in China – so far there are no confirmed cases anywhere else.
For allied health professionals, quality training pays off in unexpected circumstances – like dealing with a potential pandemic-causing illness. Having the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to help early identification of possible victims is one positive step toward preventing transmission. While no patient-to-patient transmission has been documented in this current outbreak, viruses can mutate very quickly and can later become transmissible among people. For patients approaching healthcare workers with questions, concerns or visiting to rule out a possible exposure, receiving calm, caring attention is essential for reducing possible panic.
When unexpected situations arise, allied health professionals are essential to support the research, diagnosis and treatment of patients caught in the middle of an emerging outbreak. As direct care providers, strong patient advocates and sources of the most updated patient education, allied health professionals not only support healing, but also promote understanding for patients all over the world who come to them seeking advice and healing.
References:
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/avian-flu-h7n9-china.htm
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2013_04_03/en/index.html