Steve,
Just tuning in. Let me say that influenza in general can induce a Vitamin C deficiency. One of the signs of severe vitamin C deficiency known as scurvy is bleeding gums. It is thought that in the process of fighting a viral infection much Vitamin C is consumed leading to an induced Vitamin C deficiency and subsequent hemorrhage. One option is to give oral vitamin C 1 gram every hour until one experiences diarrhea. However even at that---the highest levels you can get orally, are only 1/10th of what is achievable intravenously. As such, a more practical option for those who can locate a physician skilled in nutritional interventions would be to take 30 to 50 grams intravenously daily for 3-5 days.
In the 1950s to early 1970s there were a number of articles published in the medical literature highlighting the benefits of high dose IV Vitamin C in the treatment of polio and multiple other viral infections inducing remission.
If in fact this virus is inducing thrombocytopenia (low platelets) this is seen in other conditions like DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation) where one is clotting and bleeding at the same time.
Additionally, some infections induce a specific platelet deficiency such as mycoplasma. I have been able to slow down this process by using Grape Seed Extract 100mg twice daily, along with Vitamin C 1000mg once to twice daily. Quercetin 250mg twice daily may be helpful as well. I do not know if this will work specifically for Avian flu, however, it would be the rare person whom it would hurt. While high dose C should be of some benefit, IV will be best.
The doctor
P.S. Called my contacts in the Midwest. They are not able to confirm this outbreak as of yet.