Overview

Avian Flu Warden Message

October 19, 2005

The U.S. Embassy is issuing this message to American citizens in New Zealand.

The U.S. Government, World Health Organization, and other governments and organizations continue to be concerned about ongoing outbreaks of Influenza A H5N1 (commonly referred to as bird flu) and the potential for a human influenza pandemic. Several Southeast Asian countries have reported transmissions of the virus from birds to humans, but so far, there has been no sustained human-to-human transmission. The human avian influenza vaccine is still under development, but the WHO has suggested that the drugs oseltamavir (brand name - Tamiflu), and zanamivir (Relenza) may be effective in combating bird flu. The latter is more difficult to use as it has to be inhaled and may not be as well tolerated as Tamiflu. The Department of State has decided to preposition Tamiflu at its Embassies and Consulates for eligible U.S. Government employees and their families serving abroad. Currently there are spots where Tamiflu is in short supply around the world. Private Americans who are interested in obtaining Tamiflu should consult their personal physicians.

In general, the U.S. Embassy encourages American citizens to develop personal preparedness plans for various contingencies, such as residential fire, security threats, or natural disaster. Individuals should not overlook potential outbreaks of contagious diseases, such as flu pandemic or SARS, when developing personal preparedness plans. Plans could include: obtaining general flu vaccines in order to bolster resistance; assessing the likelihood for quarantine and the need for provisions; evaluating risks and benefits of international travel, etc. Americans who are concerned about the Avian flu are advised to monitor the CDC, New Zealand Ministry of Health, and WHO websites for the latest information.

Resources:

• World Health Organization
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Health and Human Services
• Avian Flu Fact Sheet, U.S.Department of State
• New Zealand Avian Flu Information