{
  "id": 3084664,
  "title": "How does H5N1 bird flu spread to humans and what are the health risks?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/how-does-h5n1-bird-flu-spread-to-humans-and-what-are-the-health-risks",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-24T18:37:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2026-08-25/what-does-bird-flu-do-to-humans-pandemic-potential/106837278"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "H5N1 bird flu is a deadly strain of influenza that can occasionally spread to humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Australia states that the chance of humans catching the virus is considered low. Since 2015, there have been only 141 reported cases globally, with 24 deaths. Symptoms of H5N1 infection in humans can include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and in severe cases, respiratory distress and organ failure. The virus can be transmitted to humans through close contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments. It is also possible for humans to contract the virus through the consumption of undercooked poultry or eggs. Australian health authorities advise proper handling and cooking of poultry and eggs to reduce the risk of infection. Antiviral medications, such as baloxavir and oseltamivir, can be effective in treating H5N1 infections if administered within the first two days of symptom onset. Vaccines for the general public are not currently available, but getting a seasonal flu shot may reduce the risk of contracting H5N1.",
  "summary": "Can people get the bird flu from eggs and milk? Can you die if you become infected? Will this be the next pandemic? Here's what we know about bird flu in humans.",
  "key_points": [
    "H5N1 bird flu occasionally spreads to humans with low chances.",
    "Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, and respiratory distress.",
    "Proper handling and cooking of poultry reduce infection risk."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}