Health authorities say chances are low that the strain of avian influenza(AI) currently spreading throughout poultry farms across the nation will affect humans.
 
But the possibility of infection does exist for people who come into direct contact with excrement of infected birds such as farmers at affected farms and workers involved in culling of infected birds.  
 
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that such people at risk take antiviral drugs and wear protective clothing as preventive measures.

The H5N6 strain of AI has been detected in China, Vietnam, Laos and Hong Kong from 2014. As of this month, 17 human H5N6 cases were reported in China, out of which ten died.
 
Authorities stressed there is little possibility of human AI cases occurring among ordinary people unless they come into contact with bird flu-hit farms. Currently, there has been no case of human-to-human infection.
 
Authorities say chicken and other poultry are safe to eat if cooked properly.