The first joint AICAP/CEIRS Influenza meeting was held in April 14-16, 2008 in Memphis, TN.
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      In May 2003, the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) revised its international standard on avian influenza (AI) concerned with the risk that the spread of AI may present to the international community, particularly from the perspective of economic and public health.

      Aquatic birds are the primary reservoir of influenza A viruses. Often, some of these viruses cross the species barrier infecting non-natural hosts, without overt clinical signs. These infections can occur in land-based poultry such as chickens, turkeys, quail, guinea fowl, and chukars.

      However, for reasons that are still poorly understood, influenza viruses circulating in land-based poultry can increase their virulence and cause important economic losses due to mortality and trade restrictions.

      Uncontrolled AI in the U.S. could paralyze the industry and compromise our position as the leading exporter of poultry in the world. Fully aware of the devastating consequences that such situation could bring, the USDA sought to develop and maintain an active network that effectively monitors influenza activity in poultry across the country.

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