Avian Influenza

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is caused by an influenza type A virus which can infect domestic poultry (such as chickens, turkeys and ducks), wild birds and other animal species. 

Bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans, although there have been some rare cases. Infected birds shed virus through their saliva, mucous and feces. Human infections can happen if the virus then gets into a person’s eyes, nose or mouth, or is breathed in.