Carolina Experts Available to Discuss Bird Flu

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is a viral infection that can affect birds and sometimes humans. There is currently a new strain which seems to be highly contagious among birds and can likely infect humans through direct or indirect contact with infected poultry or their droppings.

It is caused by various strains of influenza A viruses, some of which can cause severe disease and death in poultry and wild birds, and others that can infect humans and cause mild to serious illness. Carolina experts are available to discuss the status of the current situation, including possible risk to animals and humans. They're also able to discuss prevention and effective public health preparedness and response activities.

• Mark Heise, PhD is a virologist at UNC School of Medicine who researches how viral and host genetic factors influence virus-induced disease. He studies respiratory viruses influenza A and SARS-CoV-2, along with mosquito-borne alphaviruses. Heise is also the cofounder of READDI, a nonprofit biotechnology company dedicated to preventing global catastrophes caused by viruses.
• David Weber, MD, MPH is an expert in new and emerging diseases and vaccines. He has served as the Medical Director of the Department of Hospital Epidemiology at UNC Health for over 35 years.