The AVMA has released an extensive, updated version of frequently asked questions about avian influenza, available at www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/avian_faq.asp. The document was last updated in April.

The questions are broken into five categories: General Information about Avian Influenza, FAQ about AI and People, FAQ about AI and Companion Animals, FAQ of Special Interest to Veterinarians, and FAQ of Special Interest to Our Physician Colleagues.

Additional information and resources are provided via links to a number of Web sites.

The updated document is the most current product resulting from ongoing discussions by a working group on avian influenza and companion animals. The group got together during a workshop held at AVMA headquarters this past spring. Along with the AVMA, representatives from the following organizations and agencies attended the workshop: American Association of Feline Practitioners, American Animal Hospital Association, Association of Avian Veterinarians, American Association of Avian Pathologists, National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Review of the related science and policy is continuing and future updates to the document will be posted as they become available.