Avian influenza (H5N1)
Based on CDC and WHO guidance, checked against those sources on Oct 12, 2026. Educational information only — not a diagnosis or a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional.
Common symptoms
- Eye redness or irritation (conjunctivitis)
- Fever or feeling feverish
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (in more severe illness)
Eye symptoms can start 1–2 days after exposure; breathing symptoms usually start about 3 days after (range about 2–7 days). Watch for symptoms for 10 days after your last exposure. These symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses.
Seek emergency care for
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Confusion or a change in alertness
- Seizures
- High fever, or feeling too sick to do your usual activities
When to contact a healthcare professional
- Immediately if you develop eye redness or flu-like symptoms within 10 days of contact with sick animals or raw milk.