WHO guidance on public health measures in countries experiencing their first outbreaks of H5N1 avian influenza

Overview

Outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry, when caused by highly pathogenic viruses of the H5 or H7 subtypes, are of great concern for the agricultural sector and can have considerable economic consequences. Such outbreaks are also of concern for human health. WHO therefore recommends, for certain avian influenza viruses, a series of protective measures aimed at preventing human infections in persons at high risk of exposure. These measures are particularly important during veterinary investigations and extensive and urgent culling operations.