Avian influenza biosecurity for small flock owners (2008)

Abstract

Avian influenza (bird flu) is an infectious respiratory disease caused by a virus. It readily grows in most bird species, including those that are of commercial importance, such as chickens, turkeys and ducks. The major concern now is that a highly pathogenic strain (H5N1) has also been shown to transmit to humans and has the potential to be fatal. Good biosecurity practices should help reduce the risk of spreading the disease if the virus reaches the United States.