Avian Influenza, the bird flu, is a viral disease that infects wild birds such as geese, swans, ducks, and shorebirds, as well as domestic poultry, and in rare cases other animals and humans. There are over 140 strains of bird flu viruses but only H5N1 is a danger to humans. As of early April 2006, this strain has not been detected in either birds or humans in the U.S. However, if it does become detected it does not mean that an epidemic will occur. The virus is still not easily transmitted to humans

How could the dangerous H5N1 strain come to the U.S.?

The H5N1 virus could reach the U.S. by wild bird migration, smuggling of birds and poultry products, and travel by infected people. Wild bird populations and domestic poultry are being monitored closely by local, state, and federal agencies, and the domestic poultry industry.

Unlike seasonal flu, which causes thousands of deaths every year in the U.S., Avian Influenza is more likely to be an occupational illness of those people in direct contact with sick or dead poultry. The U.S.D.A., the U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection system works hard to prevent diseased animals from entering the food chain.

What are we doing to prevent Avian Influenza?

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division of Global Migration and Quarantine (DGMQ) operates a station at Detroit’s Metro airport where flights from foreign countries are monitored. U.S. customs and border protection also monitors incoming passengers and luggage for potentially contaminated products or smuggled birds. In the event of an Avian Flu outbreak in the country, it is normal practice to humanely destroy healthy domestic birds in a geographic area surrounding the infected birds. In Michigan, federal, state, and local agencies have worked hard to prevent the introduction and spread of Avian Influenza type H5N1 with Surveillance and Response.

Use rubber or latex gloves when handling or cleaning game. Wash hands with soap and water or alcohol based products. Thoroughly clean equipment and surfaces in contact with birds. Heat kills this virus. Cook all meat to internal temperature of 160º F.