What is Avian (Bird) Influenza?

Avian influenza occurs naturally among birds and is caused by influenza viruses. Birds carry the viruses in their intestines but usually do not get sick from them. However, avian influenza is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds, including chickens, ducks and turkeys, very sick and can kill them.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of avian influenza in humans range from typical influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches) to eye infections, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, viral pneumonia and other severe and life-threatening complications.

For more information you can visit the Wisconsin Department of Health at:

Avian Influenza A Virus | Wisconsin Department of Health Services