Scientist believe influenza, commonly called, seasonal flu, originated in birds many years ago and slowly mutated to human flu. So avian influenza or bird flu has always been around but there is a new type of extreme concern which is the one caused by the H5N1 virus. This new strain of the virus is highly contagious and spreads rapidly through affected flocks killing 50 to 100% of animals, often within 48 hours.
Poultry outbreaks caused by avian influenza virus A/H5N1 have not been reported in Nepal. However outbreaks in neighbouring India and China have alerted the government, UN agencies, donors and other organizations. Nepal is considered vulnerable to the introduction or appearance of avian influenza due to: the large numbers of migrating birds, natural carriers of the virus, that rest within and pass through the country; the widespread traditional practice of mixed animal farming; cross-border importation of both eggs and chickens; and both a large poultry industry and poultry population.
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