Frequently Asked Questions -- WHO

© World Health Organization 2005. All rights reserved

updated Nov.03.2005  html-who-faq.html

What is avian influenza?
Which viruses cause highly pathogenic disease?
Do migratory birds spread the disease?
What is special about the current outbreaks in poultry?
Which countries have been affected by outbreaks in poultry?
What are the implications for human health?
Where have human cases occurred?
How do people become infected?
Is it safe to eat poultry and poultry products? NEW
Does the virus spread easily from birds to humans?
What about the pandemic risk?
What changes are needed for H5N1 to become a pandemic virus?
What is the significance of limited human-to-human transmission?
How serious is the current pandemic risk?
Are there any other causes for concern?
Why are pandemics such dreaded events?
What are the most important warning signals that a pandemic is about to start?
What is the status of vaccine development and production?
What drugs are available for treatment?
Can a pandemic be prevented?
What strategic actions are recommended by WHO?
Is the world adequately prepared?