After without new virus detections, the area is required to test negative in order to be deemed free of infection.
Bird flu is similar to , , and as an illness caused by strains of influenza viruses that have adapted to a specific host.
A dying double-crested cormorant at Illinois' Baker's Lake forest preserve, likely infected with H5N1 avian influenza.
Flocks should be isolated from outside birds, especially wild birds, and their waste; vehicles used around the flock should be regularly disinfected and not shared between farms; and birds from slaughter channels should not be returned to the farm.
Travellers to affected regions are recommended to avoid poultry farms, live bird markets, and surfaces which appear to be contaminated with poultry feces.
It infects the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts and can quickly tear through an entire flock.