Avian Flu 2024: Considerations for the Competitive Athlete.

This document discusses the potential impact of avian influenza H5N1 on competitive athletes and provides information on the virus, its transmission, and preventive measures. The document highlights that the current risk of avian influenza H5N1 to humans is classified as low by the World Health Organization and the United States Center for Disease Control. However, it also acknowledges the potential for future human-to-human transmission and the challenges in creating an effective vaccine. The document advises athletes to avoid contact with infected animals, cook meat thoroughly, practice good hygiene, and avoid sharing items with mucosal contact. Overall, while the document does not anticipate a global pandemic at the scale of COVID-19 before the Paris Games, it emphasizes the importance of awareness and education regarding avian influenza. [Extracted from the article]