Description of basic epidemiologic characteristics of avian influenza
A (H5N1), disease of birds known as fowl plague, which is not new but
abruptly emerged in connection with human outbreak in Hong-Kong. The p
robable mechanisms of virus circulation, reservoirs, routes of transmi
ssion with possible risks also for humans are presented, Established c
ontrol measures taken to prevent spreading of infection and to protect
animal and human health are desribed.