Avian Influenza A (H7N9) New! A new strain of influenza, known
as Avian Influenza A:H7N9, which is normally found only in
birds, has been infecting humans in China since March 2013.
Most, though not all of the cases reported to date, got sick
after having contact with infected birds or poultry, and most of
the reported cases have become seriously ill. The San Francisco
Department of Public Health is closely monitoring developments
with this strain of bird flu. So far, cases have been limited to
China and Taiwan - none have been reported anywhere in the USA.
Since the H7N9 influenza strain is not spreading easily from
person-to-person at this time, there is no recommendation to
avoid travel to China. Travelers should take common sense
precautions, like not touching birds or other animals, washing
hands often, and ensuring that foods made with poultry are fully
cooked. Anyone with fever, coughing, or shortness of breath
within 10 days of traveling to China should see a doctor and
tell the doctor about travel to