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Pandemic Influenza

There has been some confusion over bird flu/avian influenza and a possible influenza pandemic. The two are, in fact, separate issues, though with obvious potential links.

Government agencies, including New Zealand Food Safety Authority, are working closely to plan New Zealand’s response should avian flu be detected in New Zealand or should a pandemic outbreak occur.

If avian influenza reaches New Zealand, MAF will be the lead agency that coordinates a government response to protect poultry and wildlife. Ministry of Health will be the lead agency if there is an outbreak of a highly contagious influenza in people. 

Below is the latest available information on both avian influenza and pandemic influenza.

For the most up-to-date New Zealand information, you can visit:

http://www.moh.govt.nz/birdflu

For international information see the World Health Organisation and the OIE at:

http://www.who.int/csr/don/en/

http://www.oie.int/eng/en_index.htm

For MAF information see:

http://www.maf.govt.nz/avian-influenza/

NZFSA’s role in the event of a pandemic

New Zealand Food Safety Authority has a role in the planning for a possible influenza pandemic. It is involved with planning around food supply and related logistics during a pandemic, and how trade will be managed.

Bird flu/avian influenza

Frequently asked questions