Introduction

The term ‘avian influenza’ is used to describe influenza A subtypes that primarily affect poultry, migratory waterfowl, and other bird species. It is currently very difficult for the H5N1 virus to be transmitted from birds to humans as it requires very close contact with sick or dead birds, but in those cases where it has been transmitted, it has caused severe illness and the death rate has been high.

Guidelines

Highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza outbreaks in poultry and in humans: Food safety implications. WHO November 2005 (PDF 201KB)

Highly pathogenic avian influenza: Interim health advice for poultry & associated industries. Endorsed by the Communicable Diseases Network Australia, 29 March 2004 (PDF 85.5KB)

Resources

Avian influenza (bird flu) - Key facts

Avian influenza ("bird flu") - Fact sheet. WHO February 2006 (Article) 

BIRDFLU Important information for all Australians (Fact sheet) (PDF 165KB)

Food safety and avian influenza (PDF 201.38KB)
The Department of Food Safety, Zoonoses and Foodborne Diseases of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has developed a series of guidance documents to address the concerns related to food safety and food handling with recommendations to maintain the safety of the food supply in and outside avian influenza outbreak area. The INFOSAN notes on proper food handling and cooking included in these notes are based on the WHO 5 keys for safer food.

Frequently asked questions about avian influenza or bird flu (Fact sheet)

Non-english brochures

Smarttraveler (external site)
The Australian Government’s advisory and consular assistance service