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Influenza

Avian Influenza A (Bird flu) (H5N1)


www.moh.govt.nz/birdflu

Several countries in Asia and south-eastern Europe have experienced outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu), affecting mainly poultry (chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys).

The virus responsible for the outbreak was H5N1 - a type of influenza not normally associated with human disease.

For a list of all affected countries see the World Organisation for Animal Health website. Officials in these countries culled poultry to try to contain the virus.

Small numbers of people became infected with the H5N1 virus, causing serious illness and/or death. These people contracted the virus from having close contact with infected birds.

Since 2004, outbreaks of avian influenza have heightened international health agencies' concern about the likelihood of an influenza pandemic occurring.

Why are health authorities concerned about avian influenza?

The World Health Organization is worried that an avian influenza virus might change so that it has the ability to easily spread from person to person.

The new influenza virus could spread rapidly around the world, infecting many people. This would be an influenza pandemic.

An influenza pandemic could cause many deaths and could occur at any time. It would not necessarily be a winter illness.

What is New Zealand doing to prepare for an influenza pandemic?

New Zealand has been planning for this for some time. The Ministry of Health is working with the health sector and other Government agencies to ensure New Zealand is as prepared as possible for a potential pandemic. The Ministry of Health has a national pandemic plan, National Health Emergency Plan: New Zealand Influenza Pandemic Action Plan 2006, and District Health Boards have local plans.

More information about pandemic influenza.

Related information

Communicable diseases

International Health Regulations Review

WHO case definition (www.who.int)

New Zealand Food Safety Authority (www.nzfsa.govt.nz)


Page last updated: 7 May 2009