Does owning a caged pet bird increase my risk of getting bird flu?
The likelihood of getting a pet bird already infected with avian flu is very low. Presently, it is illegal in the U.S. to import birds from regions that are infected with bird flu. If you own a pet bird and are concerned, keep the bird inside to avoid exposure to wild or migratory birds. If you are buying a new bird, especially an exotic bird, be sure it has been legally imported. Information about federal embargoes on bird importation can be found at www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/outbreaks/embargo.htm.
