First case of H5N8 strain reported in Russia on February20. It is a first case of transmission of Avian flu to human-beings. WorldHealth Organisation has been alerted about it.
Russian Scientists of Vektor Laboratory, reportedly haveseparated the genetic material of the strain from seven workers. These sevenworkers work at a poultry farm in Southern Russia.
The outbreak of Avian flu was reported in December butthis is said to be the first transmission cases among human-beings.
According to the Health Watchdog's Rospotrebnadzor, AnnaPopova, workers have not yet developed any serious consequences or symptoms.
Whatis H5N8 flu?
H5N8causesflu like symptoms in birds and animals. It is known as a subtype of Influenza Avirus. It is not regarded as lethal and till now it was not transmitted tohumans.
It was earlier believed that the H5N8 is restricted tobirds and animals. In January, the samples of crows were tested positive forH5N8 in Maharashtra's Beed.
Properly cooked meat is still regarded safe as pervarious safety standards. During the budget session in the parliament, Ministerof State for health had said that cases of H5N1, H5N8, and H5 were detected inIndia.
According to WHO, H5N8 transmitted from direct contactwith animals but there was no proof of transmission in Human-beings.
Many birds are usually culled to stop the spread of Avianflu, like it happened in European Union including France and even in India.