• H5N1 virus is the scientific designation for an influenza virus A that causes one type of bird (avian) flu.
• This virus is highly contagious among birds, and can kill birds.

Is there bird flu in the US?

• To date, there is no bird flu anywhere in the US.

What countries have reported cases of bird flu outbreaks in humans?

• To date, human cases have reported in six countries, most of which are in Asia: Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam. All human cases have coincided with outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in poultry.

How is bird flu spread?

• Bird flu is mainly a disease involving birds.
  
• Bird flu is hard for people to contract.
  
• Wild birds in other countries have spread the disease to chickens, ducks, and turkeys.
  
• The individuals in other countries who contracted bird flu were in close contact with infected poultry or surfaces and objects contaminated by their feces.
  
• Sometimes other animals may be in contact with infected birds. Animals such as cats have acquired bird flu.

What is pandemic flu?

• A flu pandemic develops when a flu becomes easily transmissible from person to person.
• Bird flu is not the same as pandemic flu.
  
• If bird flu changes and becomes easily transmissible from person to person, then a pandemic could develop.
  

What precautions should I take around birds?

• Avoid direct contact with infected or dead birds, or bird droppings.
  
• Be aware that a wild bird can look normal but still be infected.
  
• Always wear gloves if you must handle a wild bird. Be sure to wash your hands afterwards.

Are there any food safety tips?

• Be assured that poultry is safe to eat if cooked properly. 
  
• Cook meats properly to kill germs in the meat.
• Learn to use a meat thermometer.
  
• Wash your hands and food preparation tools carefully.

What are some resources on the web?

www.pandemicflu.gov
www.cdc.gov
www.usda.gov
Your State Health Department
Your State Department of Agriculture