When we hear the term "Bird Flu"  we get a little uneasy.  However, did you know that all "flu" starts as Bird Flu?  Actually, birds are an intermediate host for all viral flu organisms and they play a major role in transmitting the organism from one continent to another.  There are other vectors, such as pigs, and humans, that carry the "flu". 

Our current term "Bird Flu" is one of more concern, however.  It is a little different.  This strain, known as H5N1, is worse in the young and early adults.  It also is evolving, which basically means it is learning how to survive and find new homes---namely in you and I!  Containing it and dealing with the sacrifice of flocks of birds has been the focus of the World Health Organization.  They have been very successful, but the virus continues to be a problem despite their intense efforts. 

You may want to go to this link to find the most up to date information about "bird flu".

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/