How bird flu and poultry products are related?

Avian influenza or bird flu is a kind of influenza that occurs in wild birds.  This highly contagious virus can be passed into domestic birds and poultry. Usually, human infection of bird flu is very rare. However, in case of a major outbreak of bird flu in poultry, the disease can spread into humans, and the people handling the birds directly often become unsuspecting candidates for the bird flu infection. Because of the nature of panic, it was quite obvious that chicken and poultry consumption would take a dive. However, scientist and doctors alike have agreed that chicken food products are safe for consumption. Usually chicken cooks at a temperature above 170 degrees F. It has been concluded that cooking chicken at 165 degrees F will successfully kill the influenza virus. However, people should be cautious while cooking and preparing raw chicken. Work surfaces, utensils and especially hands should be properly washed and cleaned to avoid cross-contaminations. Raw chicken should be properly stored and thawed before cooking. Eggs should be cooked to perfection so that they do not have runny yolks. While cooking, no part of the poultry should come in contact with any other food that will be eaten raw. Avian influenza has not been known to infect anyone through food products, and by maintaining proper hygiene while cooking, it is possible to avert any such infections completely.