Will you get bird flu from eating chicken? Doctor explains

As bird flu is confirmed in multiple places across Kerala in the recent times, many households are wondering whether it is better to forgo the traditional chicken and duck preparations for this year's Easter. Duck mappas, duck roast, chicken ularthiyathu, the traditional curries... There are numerous yummy dishes that generally add flavour to the post-Lent season. Dr Shahul Hameed, retired Assistant Director, Animal Husbandry Department, explains more about the H5N1 virus that causes bird flu, how to cook the meat to destroy it and more. 

What to do if you suspect an infection
H5N1 viruses, which cause bird flu in both birds and humans, can wipe out large numbers of poultry, such as chickens, ducks, and quails. The infection can spread from birds to humans, with a fatality rate as high as 50 per cent. As a precaution, meat from infected or suspected birds should never be consumed.

When is the virus destroyed?
The virus may be present not just in the meat but also in eggs, droppings and other remains. However, it is destroyed when the inner portion of the meat is exposed to 74°C for at least 3 minutes. Depending on the size of the meat and the cooking method, it may take up to an hour to reach this temperature. As using a food thermometer is not always practical at home, meat should be cooked thoroughly until the pink colour disappears.

Healthy practices
Cooked food should be refrigerated if not consumed within two hours, as food kept between 4°C and 60°C spoils quickly. Washing raw meat can spread viruses and bacteria to sinks and surrounding surfaces, increasing the risk of contamination. These germs may also transfer to other food items. It is advisable to use separate cutting boards for meat and to wash hands and utensils thoroughly with soap and water after handling it.