Epidemiological Alert: Outbreaks of avian influenza caused by influenza A(H5N1) in the Region of the Americas

Given the increasing detection of outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in birds registered in 16 countries of the Region of the Americas, the confirmation of the first human infection of influenza A(H5N1) in Latin America and the Caribbean, and the increase of cases in mammals, the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) reiterates its guidelines on surveillance, laboratory diagnostics in human and animal samples and research. PAHO/WHO recommends strengthening surveillance of respiratory disease in animal and human populations, thorough investigation of all zoonotic infections, and pandemic influenza preparedness.