With the threat of avian influenza on many people’s mind I thought it would helpful to summarize what precautions can be taken to avoid contact with this virus. Avian influenza is spread through feces and secretions of infected birds. Human cases in Asia have been associated with the consumption of raw duck blood, “mouth-to-beak” resuscitation at cockfights, and cleaning up after or handling infected birds. Exposure to fertilizer containing bird feces also poses a risk. Travelers to Asia are advised to avoid live animal markets and poultry farms. Eating cooked poultry does not pose a problem.
So if you happen to be watching a cock fight and a cock hits the dust restrain yourself from jumping over the fence and initiating CPR.