Avian Influenza

The Ornithological Council recognizes the growing interest in avian influenza as a potentially serious problem for birds and people. The purpose of this page is to provide links to sites that seek to provide current information about this emerging issue.

Fact Sheet

Avian Influenza: what ornithologists and bird banders should know.
Influenza Aviar: lo que ornitólogos y personas que anillan aves deben saber.
Produced by the Ornithological Council, revised September 2006

Internet Resources

The Ornithological Council continues to monitor developments carefully but cannot guarantee the accuracy or currency of information provided on the sites listed below.

Sites with general information about the avian influenza virus and public health

• Official U.S. government website
• U.S. Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Avian Flu home page
• Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Animal Health: Avian Influenza
• World Health Organization (WHO): Avian influenza frequently asked questions

• Health Canada: Avian Influenza
• Univeristy of Minnesota Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy

Sites with information about the potential effects of avian influenza virus on birds and bird populations

• American Bird Conservancy: Position Paper on Avian Inluenza
• National Audubon Society: Avian Influenza Information
• Environment Canada, Candian Wildlife Service: Avian Influenza and Migratory Birds

Sites with information relating to handling of birds by researchers

• Environment Canada: Precautions ("Biosafety Practices") when handling wild birds