Avian influenza or bird flu is a group of viruses that occur naturally in birds. Currently there is concern about one of these viruses, known as H5N1, because it is causing severe disease in wild birds, chickens, and other poultry in several continents. It has also been found in wild birds in the same areas. In some instances, people who have had close contact with sick poultry have also become infected and gotten very sick. Approximately half of the people known to be infected have died.

Although officials are watching closely, this severe form of bird flu has not been found in the United States. It is important to remember that right now avian flu can only make people sick if they have very close contact with infected poultry.

Get more information and downloadable posters from the NYS Health Department.