Could highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza cause a problem in countries which are currently unaffected?
Yes, the possibility of HPAI H5N1 breaking out always exists but the likelihood of it happening varies from country to country. This largely depends on the level of biosecurity in place on farms and in commercial poultry production facilities, on the safeguards in place to monitor disease in poultry flocks, and on the level of compliance with import and export controls. Everyone, including pet owners, should be aware of the potential of the H5N1 avian influenza virus to cause disease and death, as well as how it can be transmitted. If H5N1 HPAI is identified in your country, the competent authorities will issue instructions on the precautions to take, but there is no reason to abandon cats, dogs, or other pets because of concerns about contracting or spreading the virus.
