AMC Warns of Avian Flu Threat

The Air Mobility Command surgeon general’s office has advised overseas travelers of the threat of avian flu. While viruses such as avian flu occur naturally among wild birds, the current form is especially contagious in domesticated chickens, ducks and turkeys. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the spread of the virus from one ill person to another is rare and has not been observed to continue beyond one person. Nevertheless individuals traveling to areas with cited cases — in particular Asian nations — should have an understanding of the risks of potential infection, said Chief Master Sgt. Peggy Kerns of the surgeon general’s public health section. “Special caution should be applied to frequenting live animal markets and poultry farms in these regions,” she said. In addition, when handling and cooking fresh poultry, it’s essential to wash hands and surfaces that come in contact with meat.