The recent outbreaks of avian influenza (AI), better known as "bird flu," in Asia, Europe and Africa increase the possibility of the disease entering the United States.
Poultry or exotic bird owners who are concerned about avian influenza and other infectious bird diseases affecting their birds and/or those of their neighbors should check out resources by the U.S. Department of Agriculture at www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/birdbiosecurity. All bird species are susceptible to contracting AI, making prevention a necessity.
On that site is information bird owners can use on how to spot signs of illness, where to report sick or dying birds and how to practice biosecurity to keep birds safe from infectious diseases such as bird flu.