Avian influenza, or as many call, bird flu, is an infection from an Avian influenza virus. This infection is most commonly found only on birds. Most of the infected birds are wild and sometimes don't get ill even if it is carrying the virus. But, if the bird does get sick, then the bird will become very ill and will most likely end up dying. This virus is also very contagious between birds.

Well, it is actually a big threat to our society. This is so, because through contact with infected surfaces, food and or water is consumed or touched by a domestic bird, like a chicken, duck, or tukey, that bird can become infected. If the virus is able to reach and infect a domestic bird, we are now in danger of receiving the virus. The virus can be found in the bird's feces and body secretions, like saliva and nasal drainage. If we come in contact with this virus, although rare, we can become infected and have Avian influenza.

Currently, it is not, but it is possible. Until now, there have been very little reports of the virus jumping from one human to another. The possibility of the virus mutating and becoming contagious between humans is what we fear of. For more info please click our Evolution of Virus link.