Bird flu also known as avian influenza, is a viral infection that infects birds, humans other animals too.H5N1 is the most common form of bird flu and several types of bird flu can be dangerous to humans and birds even. H5N1 is a type of influenza virus that causes a highly infectious, severe respiratory disease in birds called avian influenza.
Bird flu occurs naturally in wild waterfowl and can spread to domestic poultry, such as chicken, turkey, and duck. The disease is transmitted via contact with an infected bird's feces or secretions from its nose, or eyes.
The avian influenza viruses typically produce respiratory signs such as sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and swollen infraorbital in poultry.
The bird flu can happen to the pet birds, when spends any time outdoors, where they might come in contact with wild birds and animals. Thus make sure you do not take your pet birds outside.
But proper care has to be taken while feeding the birds during the time of bird flu, always wear your mask and gloves while feeding them. You can feed them a mix of leafy greens and other vegetables. For some fruits, grain and nuts consult your veterinarian for the optional diet for your specific bird.
Finally, scheduled regular wellness checks with your avian vet and always monitor their health throughout life. Therefore a quality diet is one of the primary ways to maximize a pet bird's healthy life span.