Avian Influenza

A highly contagious viral disease with nearly 100% mortality in fowl. Caused by influenza A virus subtypes H5 and H7. All types of birds are susceptible to the virus, but outbreaks occur most often in chickens, turkeys, ducks and geese. A number of countries in Asia are experiencing outbreaks of avian influenza. Small numbers of people have become infected, causing serious illness and/or death. Human risk appears to result from exposure to live poultry rather than handling, cooking or eating poultry meat.