Bird flu (H5n1, or avian flu) is a strain of Influenza that is carried by birds. This flu passes between birds, mutates, evolves and is passed to humans or swine. Bird flu has passed to humans recently and some strains of it have mutated enough to be passed from human host to another human. Bird flu can be moved globally because of flight patterns of birds....and found locally when affected birds pass it to swine or local birds (chickens). In Asia, recent bird flu outbreaks have been highly contangious with a disturbingly high rate of death among those coming down with the virus.
Obviously, when a bird flu pandemic happens, you will want masks to protect you. Images of people on trains, buses, or simply walking down the street in Asian cities with masks over there faces are good reminders of how to help protect yourself and others. The good thing about bird flu masks is that they help protect you and protect others. They catch the droplets containing viruses from the person who sneezes (if he/she has a mask on!). Remember: during a flu pandemic: do not panic. Practice good hygiene (sneeze into your arm, wash hands frequently, do not touch objects and then your mouth, nose, or face, etc). Taking time now to plan ahead and consider purchasing bird flu masks could save your life.
Because bird flu is a tiny virus, normal masks don't necessarily protect against it. Generally, good quality respirator masks help protect against particles as small as .3 microns. Remember: nothing is 100% effective against protecting you in a pandemic. Bird flu masks will help...along with practicing proper hygiene. However, avoiding crowded areas where infected people can pass the virus is the best way to help protect you during an emergency. Certainly, though, every step you can take in a pandemic will help. Having plenty of flu masks (before they sell out) is a critical step in protecting yourself!
If you plan ahead, you have opportunity on your side. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about bird flu masks and ways you can protect your family. Do not wait for the pandemic to hit before you buy flu masks....otherwise, it might be too late. In an emergency, talk to local government leaders or organizations like the Red Cross to find out about Bird Flu masks during a pandemic.