Update on avian influenza pandemic threat

So far, the current risk to people in the United States from the H5N1 bird flu outbreak in Asia is low (CDC, 2005a). The strain of H5N1 virus found in Asia has not been found in the United States; and as of November 2005, there have been no human cases of H5N1 flu reported in the United States. Travel to countries in Asia has not been restricted, but travelers are advised to avoid all direct contact with poultry, poultry farms, animals in live food markets, and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals (CDC, 2005a). Meanwhile, medical and public health personnel are watching closely and preparedness plans are under way to respond to the threat of an avian influenza pandemic.