It’s about way more than just the price of eggs; bird flu is making headlines due to a rare human fatality earlier this year. In this article, I’ll explore holistic approaches to bird flu prevention, from strengthening your immune system with nutrient-dense foods and antiviral herbs to practical steps for reducing exposure. You’ll also learn how to recognize symptoms early and prepare food safely to minimize risk. Whether you’re looking to boost resilience, support recovery, or simply stay informed, these natural strategies can help you stay ahead of the virus while promoting overall well-being.

The most common symptoms of avian flu are flu-like symptoms, including:

• Fever

• Sore throat

• muscle aches

Less commonly, people may experience:

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Bleeding gums

• Chest pain

• Conjuctivitis

If you suspect you have bird flu, seek medical attention immediately, especially if you have had recent contact with birds or poultry. Avoid close contact with others, wear a mask, and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. You can also reach out to a qualified naturopath to help fight the virus and support your immune system response with natural remedies.

How to avoid getting bird flu ~ Avian flu prevention

FOOD HANDLING AND COOKING:

• Avoid cross-contamination; always prepare raw meat separately and thoroughly clean and disinfecting cooking surfaces and utensils.

• Cook poultry an internal temperature of 165°F to kill bacteria and viruses. Store raw poultry separate from cooked and ready-to-eat foods.

• Cook ground beef to 160°F and whole cuts to 145°F (with a 3-minute rest). Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw beef separate from other foods.

• Cook eggs until the whites are firm and the yolks have thickened.

• Choose pasteurized milk and dairy products. Raw milk and its products (e.g., soft cheese, ice cream, yogurt) may contain harmful germs. Pasteurization eliminates bacteria and viruses, including avian influenza A.

• TIP: Locate a small organic farm in your area. These types of farms rarely have issues with bird flu, as their practices are more focused on natural, humane, and biosecure methods. They often raise poultry in smaller flocks with access to outdoor spaces, reducing the risk of overcrowding and disease spread. Additionally, organic farms typically avoid antibiotics and synthetic chemicals, supporting healthier birds and a more resilient food system. Buying from these farms can provide safer, nutrient-rich poultry and eggs while minimizing your exposure to potential contaminants.

KEEP IT CLEAN:

• Wash hands before and after handling food, animals and bird feeders. Lather and scrub the palms, backs of the hands, wrists, nails, and between fingers for at least 20 seconds, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

• Avoid unnecessary contact with birds, especially wild or visibly sick birds.

• Wear gloves and other personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling birds or raw poultry.

SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

In addition to 5 Things you can do to support your immune health today, be sure to get plenty of rest, clean protein, pure water, and load up on antiviral, immune-supportive foods:

• Garlic – Contains allicin, a potent antiviral and immune-boosting compound.

• Ginger – Fights viral infections and reduces inflammation.

• Turmeric – Rich in curcumin, which has strong antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. If you haven’t tried my turmeric-rich Golden Latte yet, your missing out!

• Coconut oil – Contains lauric acid and monolaurin, known for their antiviral effects.

• Elderberries – Packed with antioxidants and antiviral compounds that help fight flu viruses.

• Oregano – Contains carvacrol, a powerful antiviral agent. My Antioxidant Herb Spread is a great way to load up on oregano and other healing herbs.

• Bone broth – Provides essential amino acids and minerals that support immune function.

• Citrus fruits – High in vitamin C, which strengthens immune defenses.

• Mushrooms (Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake) – Enhance immune response and balance inflammation.

• Leafy greens (Kale, Spinach, Swiss chard) – Rich in vitamins A, C, and antioxidants that support immune health.

• Fermented foods (Sauerkraut, Kimchi, Yogurt) – Support gut health, which plays a crucial role in immunity. Try making your own with my Lacto-Fermented Lime Pickle and Probi0tic Preserved Lemon recipes

• Nuts and seeds (Almonds, Sunflower seeds, Flaxseeds) – Provide zinc, selenium, protein and healthy fats essential for immune function. These Best-Ever Seed Crackers and Dukkah recipes are delicious ways to incorporate nuts and seeds into your diet.

Medicinal herbs can be very effective in fighting the avian flu virus. I’ve chosen to highlight the following herbs which have been researched specifically for their antiviral effects against the H5N1 strain.

IMPORTANT! Before using any herbs below, be sure to seek professional guidance as some herbs are not safe to take alongside certain medications or health conditions. You can book a session here to see what herbs are appropriate for you.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

• Glycyrrhizin has shown inhibition of H5N1 replication and modulation of immune response, reducing lung inflammation in studies.

Houttuynia (Houttuynia cordata)

• Demonstrated direct inhibition of H5N1 viral replication and suppression of viral-induced inflammation in research. Houttuynia can also be an effective part of a treatment plan for mold illness and chronic Lyme.

Baical Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis)

• Baicalin has been studied for its anti-H5N1 activity, showing the ability to block viral entry and reduce lung damage. This is one of my favorite herbs for shifting the immune response in the treatment of long covid.

Isatis (Isatis indigotica)

• Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for viral infections, studies show it can inhibit H5N1 proliferation and modulate the immune response.

Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)

• EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) found in green tea has been researched for its ability to block H5N1 and H7N9 viral entry into host cells.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

• Hibiscus tea extract has demonstrated high antiviral effects against the H5N1 avian influenza virus in vitro. The tea is also a good source of vitamin C.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Sage (Salvia officinalis)

• Essential oils from these herbs have been studied for their antiviral activity against the H5N1 avian influenza virus. Do not take essential oils internally. They are best used topically, diluted in a carrier oil. More about how to use essential in the Aromatherapy for Vagal Tone eBook.

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The views and nutrition, naturopathic and herbal recommendations expressed by Camille Hoffman and in Hoffman Natural Health’s programs, website, publications and newsletters, do not constitute a practitioner-patient relationship, are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service and are for informational purposes only. The statements and content found in these programs, website, publications and newsletters have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The treatments described may have known and unknown side effects and health hazards. Each user is solely responsible for their own healthcare choices and decisions. Camille Hoffman advises the website user to discuss these ideas with a healthcare professional or physician before trying them. Camille Hoffman does not accept any responsibility for any positive or adverse effects a person claims to experience, directly or indirectly, from the ideas and contents of this website.   

SOURCES

The Center for Disease Control. Food safety and bird flu. https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/prevention/food-safety.html#:~:text=Cooking%20beef%20to%20the%20appropriate,cooked%20to%20prevent%20cross%2Dcontamination.

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