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Test tube with positive bird flu specimen

Bird Flu

Bird flu viruses are found naturally among wild birds and poultry and usually do not affect people. However, some bird flu viruses have spread from birds to humans and have caused illness in people. People should be careful not to come in contact with infected birds or contaminated areas during an outbreak of bird flu among poultry.

Bird Flu (H5N1) Virus

General information about bird flu.

What is bird flu?

Bird flu is an infection caused by influenza (flu) virus. These flu viruses occur naturally among birds. Wild birds worldwide carry the viruses in their intestines, but usually do not get sick from them. However, bird flu is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds, including chickens, ducks and turkeys, very sick and kill them.

Information on Bird Flu | Avian Influenza (Flu)

Frequently Asked Questions about Avian Influenza | Avian Influenza (Flu)

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