Bird flu outbreak declared in Niger capital

The capital city of Niger, Niamey, has been declared an infected zone after a fresh outbreak of the H5N1 strain of bird flu was detected in local birds.

The virus can cause life-threatening sickness in several species of birds including poultry and wild birds.

Humans in frequent contact with birds can also become infected. Symptoms can include fever, aching muscles, headache, and a cough or shortness of breath.

Key safety measures to prevent the spread of the illness are:

washing hands either with soap and running water, or using alcohol hand rubs

separating raw meat from cooked or ready-to-eat foods

cooking food thoroughly, and handling and storing meat safely

According to ActuNiger, over the past two years, there have been several outbreaks of H5N1 in Niger, which is classified as a "notifiable zoonotic animal disease".