Can You Catch Bird Flu From Chickens? What No One’s Telling You

Bird flu has been spreading rapidly, wiping out flocks across the whole country. While its effects on birds are well-known and often fatal, many people are also worried about its potential impact on humans. Can people who care for birds contract bird flu? If so, is there a cure available for them? Let’s explore everything you need to know about this deadly virus.

What Is Bird Flu?

Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects birds. Some strains, like H5N1 and H5N8, have caused major outbreaks in poultry worldwide.

But here’s the thing—bird flu doesn’t just magically appear in your flock one day. It doesn’t work like that. You won’t suddenly wake up and find your chickens sick without a reason. The virus spreads when infected birds or their droppings come into contact with healthy birds.

It can also spread through the wind, wild birds, or even on the shoes you use to care for your flock. And that’s where the trouble starts. Chickens are much more vulnerable, and if the virus gets into your coop, it can spread like wildfire and become a real threat. And not only to your chickens.

The Bird Flu Outbreak – Real Risk or Passing Crisis?

The Avian Influenza virus is nothing new. It has been around – as we currently know it – for more than a decade. The first human infection was confirmed in 1997. Outbreaks happen annually, especially in spring, when birds start migrating. However, specialists have been warning us that what we might be currently dealing with could be much more than the classic outbreak. Do we need to worry? Could we be dealing with a national health crisis event in the near future? Let’s take a look at the facts we currently have:

• The highly pathogenic H7N9 strain has been discovered in Mississippi this month. This particular strain has not been observed in the United States ever since 2017.
• For the first time ever, the H5N1 strain has been detected in U.S. dairy cows, marking a significant expansion of the virus’s host range. This raises concerns about potential transmission to humans and other species.
• An increasing number of domestic cats have contracted the H5N1 virus this year. We are also seeing a significant number of pet-food brands pulled from store shelves after being found contaminated with the virus.
• In the last 30 days alone, 13 million birds have been impacted by the avian flu.
• As of March 2025, there have been over 60 confirmed human cases of H5N1 bird flu in the United States since the start of 2024.
• In January 2025, the United States reported its first death from H5N1 bird flu. A person in Louisiana, aged about 65 years old, was exposed to bird flu by a backyard flock and has died after experiencing complications.

In the light of all these scary events, specialists are starting to weight in on the true risks of the avian influenza becoming a national – or even global – problem. Scientists are starting to worry that it’s only a matter of time until we start seeing human-to-human transmission.

Can Humans Catch Bird Flu From Chickens?

The short answer is: yes, humans can get bird flu from chickens. At the moment, though, it seems to remain relatively rare. The virus spreads most easily through close contact with infected birds. That means if you handle sick chickens, clean their coop, or touch their droppings, you could be at risk.

That’s why it’s crucial to monitor your chickens’ behavior closely. As a homesteader, you interact with your flock daily and are familiar with their usual habits. If you notice even a slight change in their behavior, take action immediately. Early detection can help prevent the spread of illness and protect both your livestock and you.

Ways Bird Flu Can Spread to Humans

Now, let’s talk about how the virus actually spreads to humans. There are a few key ways bird flu can make its way from chickens to you:

• Contact With Infected Birds: There’s a chance you might visit a fellow homesteader’s chicken coop without realizing their birds are infected with the flu. While caring for their chickens, you could come into direct contact with droppings or contaminated surfaces.
  

  

  This increases the risk of catching the virus and bringing it home.

• Contaminated Surfaces: If your flock has bird flu, their feeders, water bowls, and other shared equipment will likely be contaminated with the virus. Touching these surfaces without proper precautions can put you at risk of infection.
• Airborne Exposure and Respiratory Droplets: When infected birds cough or sneeze, tiny droplets of the virus can become airborne. If you breathe in these droplets, there’s a major chance you could catch the virus.
• Visiting Commercial Poultry Farms: Large-scale farms have thousands of birds in close quarters, making them a breeding ground for bird flu outbreaks. If you visit one of these farms, you might bring bird flu back home.

Bird Flu Symptoms in Humans

Bird flu symptoms in humans can range from mild to severe. They often resemble those of other types of flu. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:

Common Bird Flu Symptoms:

1. Fever – Often sudden onset of high fever.
2. Cough – Dry or productive cough.
3. Sore Throat – A scratchy or painful throat.
4. Body Aches – Muscle pain and joint discomfort.
5. Fatigue – Feeling unusually tired or weak.
6. Headache – Persistent or severe headaches.
7. Runny or Stuffy Nose – Similar to common cold symptoms.
8. Shortness of Breath – Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.

Severe Bird Flu Symptoms (more likely with highly pathogenic strains, like the H7N9):

1. Pneumonia – Infection in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and low oxygen levels.
2. Severe respiratory distress – Could lead to hospitalization or ventilator support.
3. Conjunctivitis (pink eye) – Red, swollen eyes in some cases.
4. Gastrointestinal issues – Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (more common with some strains).
5. Bleeding – In severe cases, there can be abnormal bleeding, such as nosebleeds or gums bleeding.

Possible Complications:

• Organ failure – Particularly in severe cases, the virus can lead to organ failure (liver, kidney etc.).
• Sepsis – A systemic infection that can affect multiple organs.

The newly resurfaced H7N9 strain of avian influenza can be particularly dangerous to humans, though it is still relatively rare compared to other milder, more common strains like H5N1. It typically spreads to humans through direct contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments. The fatality rate for H7N9 is generally higher than seasonal flu. The virus has led to hospitalizations and fatalities before, outside of the US, particularly in persons with a weak or compromised immune system.

With the rising threat of dangerous strains like this one, it’s clear that a compromised immune system could leave you vulnerable to severe illness. With each new outbreak, the risk grows—and the time to act is now. Waiting until an outbreak hits could be the difference between survival and illness. Now is the time to arm yourself with some of nature’s most powerful remedies, such as:

• Garlic – An antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory wonder, that can help ward off illnesses and strengthen your body’s natural defenses.
• Turmeric – Known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, it can help reduce the effects of illness and supports immune function.
• Mullein – A soothing herb that promotes respiratory health, that could help your body fight off infections in the lungs and airways.
• Ginger – A powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, that aids in digestion, supports immunity, and could help alleviate symptoms of viral infections.
• Reishi Mushrooms – Often called the “Mushroom of Immortality,” Reishi has been revered for thousands of years for its ability to supercharge the immune system. Packed with compounds that enhance immune response, this miraculous mushroom is a powerful defender against infections and can help your body recover faster from illness, even after a viral assault. Consider it nature’s secret weapon.

These ingredients, along with many others, are all part of a natural arsenal ready to support your body when it needs it most. If you’re unsure how to harness their full potential, you’ll find over 200 surprisingly effective recipes right here that can help you harness the power of these herbs and boost your immune defenses. Don’t wait for the next outbreak to strike – take action now and prepare your body for whatever comes next.

What to Do if You Develop Flu-Like Symptoms After Handling Poultry?

If you start noticing any of the mentioned symptoms within 10 days of handling your flock, don’t wait. Contact your healthcare provider right away. They’ll be able to assess your symptoms and decide if you need further testing.

Depending on your symptoms, they might suggest tests to check your condition. If needed, they may prescribe antiviral medications. They will also advise you to isolate yourself until you fully recover.

While isolating yourself, it’s important to continue supporting your body as it fights off illness. Along with medical care, there are some simple at-home methods that can help you feel more comfortable and speed up recovery. Many healthcare professionals follow practices to maintain strong immunity when exposed to illness, and some of these same practices can also be done by you, from the comfort of your home. By learning how to support your immune system naturally, you can better protect yourself during times when viral threats are higher.

Essential Guidelines to Protect Yourself & Your Flock

To keep yourself and your flock safe from bird flu, follow the guidelines below:

Ensure Biosecurity Measures

• Proper Cleaning Routines and Disinfection: Keep your coop clean and disinfect surfaces regularly. Additionally, always wash your hands after handling your chickens, and don’t forget to disinfect your boots and equipment.
• Mandate Protective Clothing: Wear gloves and a mask when handling sick birds or cleaning the coop. This keeps the virus from getting on your clothes or hands, which could spread it to other chickens—or you.
• Restrict Flock Exposure to Wild Birds: Wild birds are the main carriers of bird flu, and they’re often the ones that bring the virus into your flock. To protect your chickens, keep them in an enclosed area where they’re safe from wild bird contact. Also, make sure your coop has no openings that could allow them to get inside. I recommend setting up these DIY automatic traps for chicken predators, that can significantly reduce the chances of wild birds getting too close to your flock.

Carefully Handle Sick or New Birds

• Quarantine New or Sick Birds: If you’re adding new chickens to your flock, it’s a good idea to isolate them for a short period. During this time, monitor them closely for any signs of bird flu. If they seem healthy, you can gradually introduce them to the rest of your flock. The same goes for any birds that appear to be acting unusual.
• Safely Dispose of Dead Birds and Waste: If any of your chickens die from what you suspect is bird flu, handle them with care. Wear protective gear and follow proper disposal guidelines to avoid contaminating other areas or animals.

Instead of panicking, focus on practical, common-sense precautions. Boost your immune system, regularly clean and disinfect your coop, avoid contact with wild birds, and wear protective gear when handling sick chickens.

Plant Your Very Own Medicinal Garden

In addition to these measures, think about the benefits of incorporating medicinal herbs into your garden. This offers more than just a beautiful space – it can be a game-changer for both your health and the well-being of your flock, especially in the face of growing risks like bird flu. Herbs like chamomile, echinacea and calendula are natural immunity boosters and can be a great addition to your routine. Imagine having them right at your fingertips whenever you need them!

These plants not only help combat flu-like symptoms, reduce stress, and strengthen your immune system, but they can also support the health and immunity of your chickens and livestock, especially when viruses like bird flu threaten their (and your!) well-being.

Here are just a few examples:

• Yarrow has strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for treating infections and promoting healing. It also has immune-boosting effects, which can help humans and livestock recover from illness or injury.
• Echinacea is renowned for its ability to stimulate the immune system, making it great for preventing and fighting infections. It is particularly useful for respiratory health and support after exposure to illness.
• Chamomile is soothing and has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties. It helps ease digestive upset, reduces stress, and promotes restful sleep, which can boost immunity.
• Lavender is known for its calming and antiseptic properties. It reduces stress and anxiety while supporting the immune system by helping the body manage inflammation and improve relaxation.
• Chicory is a natural detoxifier and has antibacterial properties. It helps support digestive health, which is key to immune function, and can encourage appetite and healthy digestion in sick animals.

By growing your own herbal remedies, you’re not just enhancing your own health, but also creating a natural defense for your animals, helping protect them when they need it most. If you’re ready to get started, there’s a kit available that contains all of these essential seeds, along with a comprehensive guide full of natural remedies you can make out of them at home. This is your opportunity to build a self-sustaining herbal garden that boosts immunity for both you and your animals. Hurry, though—this kit is available in limited quantities and won’t last long!

Final Thoughts – Practical Precautions vs. Unnecessary Panic

Bird flu is a serious concern for poultry keepers, but with the right precautions, the risk to humans remains relatively low. Instead of worrying, focus on improving your immunity, cleaning your coop regularly, limiting contact with wild birds, and wearing protective gear when handling sick birds.

Overall, by staying informed and practicing good biosecurity, you can continue to enjoy caring for your chickens while keeping both them and yourself safe.

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