Symptoms of avian influenza A(H7N9)

Learn about the symptoms of avian influenza A(H7N9), what to look for and what to do if you become ill.

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What are the symptoms of avian influenza A(H7N9)?

To date, most patients infected with avian influenza A(H7N9) have suffered severe pneumonia, with some cases resulting in death.

The symptoms of avian influenza A(H7N9) are initially similar to the seasonal flu. They include:

  • fever
  • cough
  • sore throat
  • muscle aches
  • tiredness
  • loss of appetite
  • runny or stuffy nose

The infection may become very serious, resulting in severe respiratory illness. This can include:

  • difficulty breathing
  • pneumonia
  • acute respiratory distress syndrome

What do you do if you become ill?

If you have been travelling or living in an area where avian influenza is a concern, you should:

  • tell a border services officer when you return to Canada if you have these symptoms upon arrival
  • call your health care provider if you develop symptoms within 14 days after your return to Canada
    • tell them where you have been travelling or living, and describe any contact with poultry you may have had

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