What is “Bird Flu” and what is “HPAI H5N1”?

• “Bird Flu” is a nonscientific term that was coined to describe the HPAI H5N1 viruses that have been present in Asia since 1997. This term has caused a great deal of confusion because it is often used as a synonym for avian influenza.
• HPAI H5N1 is a highly pathogenic H5N1 virus that has persisted in Asia at least since 1997. It is established in domestic poultry populations in Asia (primarily chickens and domestic ducks).

Is HPAI H5N1 present in wild birds?

• Wild bird mortality in Hong Kong in 2002-2003 was attributed to infection with the HPAI H5N1 virus. Wild bird mortality associated with HPAI H5N1 has continued through 2005, and the current distribution suggests movement of this virus is occurring via migratory birds.

Is HPAI H5N1 present in birds along the Pacific flyway?

• There is no evidence of the HPAI H5N1 virus in North America.

How could H5N1 arrive in North America?

• Migratory birds, particularly waterfowl and shorebirds, cross the Bering Sea between Alaska and Asia during their seasonal cycles of breeding, molting and wintering. While in Asia, migratory birds could come into contact with infected domestic or wild birds. However, if H5N1 arrives in North America, the virus is more likely to be transported by people who are infected, or through virus-contaminated articles or illegally imported birds or bird products.

Is this virus easy to contract from wild birds?

• There are no known cases of human infection from wild birds. These viruses do not move easily to humans. Most H5N1 infections in humans have resulted from close contact with infected poultry or contaminated surfaces.

Are other animals susceptible to this virus?

• Information on infection and impacts to other animal groups is not complete. Recent literature suggests H5N1 can infect pigs and cats, both wild and domestic.

Should I take any extra precautions when handling wild birds?

• There are no known cases where H5N1 has been transmitted from wild birds to humans. However, even apparently healthy wild birds can be infected with other microorganisms and parasites that can move between wildlife and people. Therefore, it is always a wise and safe practice to wear some basic protection, and keep tools and work surfaces clean when preparing game animals. Clean and sanitary handling of animals and meat prevents common infections that can become serious.
  
  Viruses like H5N1 are shed from birds in fluid discharges and fecal material, so it is good practice to avoid contact with these materials while plucking and cleaning birds. Most viruses do not persist very long after they have left their host and can be neutralized with heat, drying and disinfectants.

Hunters are advised to practice the following guidelines for handling wild birds:

• Do not handle or butcher birds that are obviously sick or are found dead.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke while cleaning animals.
• Wear rubber gloves and washable clothing when cleaning game.
• Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol wipes immediately after handling game.
• Wash tools and working surfaces with soap and water, then disinfect with a 10 percent solution of chlorine bleach.
• Cook game meat thoroughly. Poultry should reach an internal temperature of 155-165ºF.

For More Information:

• National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Wildlife Health Center
• U.S. Department of Agriculture
• USDA-APHIS-Veterinary Services
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services