Avian influenza virus usually refers to influenza A viruses found chiefly in birds, but infections can occur in humans. The risk is generally low to most people, because the viruses do not usually infect humans. However, confirmed cases of human infection have been reported since 1997.…more

What You Should Know

• Key Facts
• Infection in Humans
• Current H5N1 Situation
• Questions & Answers

Specific Topics

• The Virus & Its Spread
  Flu viruses, avian flu viruses, spread among birds, spread to people
• Prevention
  Infection control, vaccine development

• Outbreaks
  Current H5N1 situation, past outbreaks, bird embargo , quarantine executive order

Information for Specific Groups

• Health Professionals
• State Health Departments
• Poultry Industry
• Persons Involved in Eradication Activities

• Travelers
• U.S. Citizens Living Abroad
• Air Travel & Cruise Ships
• Persons with Possible Exposure

Additional Resources

• References
• CDC Pandemic Flu Resources
  CDC Influenza Pandemic Operation Plan (OPLAN)

• Related Links

• Email this page
• Printer-friendly version
• Get email updates New!
• RSS feed
  NEW!

Languages

• Español (Spanish)
  
• (Chinese)
• (Vietnamese)

Contact CDC

• 800-CDC-INFO
  888-232-6348 (TTY)
  cdcinfo@cdc.gov
• Sign up for Clinician E-mail Updates

News & Highlights

• See also…
  • What's New: Seasonal Flu
  • Latest News Releases
  • WHO News & Updates
• Updated Interim Guidance for Laboratory Testing of Persons with Suspected Infection with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus in the United States NEW! November 7, 2008
• Interim Guidance for Follow-up of Contacts of Persons with Suspected Infection with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus in the United States NEW! November 7, 2008