Bird Flu

ADB Updates on Avian Flu Crisis

Impact on Bird Populations

Since 2003, avian flu has been found in the bird populations of more than 60 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, according to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE).

Hundreds of millions of poultry have been killed either directly by the disease, or by authorities culling to prevent the further spread. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) estimates losses in the poultry sector at more than $10 billion since 2003. This has had a severe impact on the rural poor, who keep backyard poultry to supplement their income, and to provide food security.

Confirmed Human Cases of Avian Flu

According to the World Health Organization (WHO),* as of 9 December 2008, 246 people have died out of 389 people infected in 15 of the countries affected.

An ADB study has estimated that an influenza pandemic could lead to 3 million deaths in Asia. It would also reduce economic growth and hamper efforts to reduce poverty.

Total number of cases includes number of deaths.
WHO reports only laboratory-confirmed cases.
All dates refer to onset of illness.