How long does avian influenza last?

Answer 1

It is estimated that 50 to 60 % of those who have the Avian Flu do not survive. For some, the illness takes them quickly with overwhelming fluids filling in the lungs, others may need long term intervention and ventilator support, and even induced coma, to just survive.

Answer 2

If you are healthy and live through the infection, the duration of the flu varies from person to person but it and the symptoms are similar to other influenza infections. Most influenza symptoms last 10 to 14 days when our bodies are able to fight off the infection, but with Avian flu, the respiratory system is significantly compromised and secondary infections and conditions can lengthen the illness in those who survive. Some complications are pneumonia, collapsed lungs, respiratory failure, kidney failure and heart problems. These would significantly expand the duration of the infection.

Avian influenza is extremely severe and 50 - 60% of those infected die. However, unlike "Swine Flu" it is not easily transmitted from person to person, so although the Death Rate is high of those infected, there have only been a few hundred deaths so far since 2003, because of the small numbers of people who have contracted the disease.