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Currently there are no human cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza
 (H5N1) in the U.S.

The local health department will provide guidance to the medical community in the event of an avian influenza outbreak or infectious disease outbreaks.

The California Department of Health Services (CDHS) recommendations for enhanced surveillance activities are available at the CDHS Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory's California Influenza Surveillance Project Web site. These recommendations include guidelines for testing and infection control precautions for influenza A (H5N1).

Please see CDC’s website for the latest Updated Interim Guidance for Laboratory Testing of Persons with Suspected Infection with Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus in the United States.  All health care providers should consult with the local health department for advice on diagnostic testing and specimen submission.

For more information on local surveillance and reporting, visit the Community Epidemiology Branch Web site.

Phone stickers with contact information for reporting communicable diseases in San Diego are available by calling 619-641-5015.


Health Care Planning
The preparedness level of local health care providers will be key in determining the effectiveness of the overall local response to a pandemic influenza. Health care providers are encouraged to develop pandemic influenza plans and preparations. Public Health staff is available to consult during this process and participate in preparedness activities.


For more information about pandemic influenza, send us an email or phone (888) 633-1330.

Additional Information for Health Care Planning

• CDC Avian Influenza: Resources for Health Professionals
• PandemicFlu.gov Health Care Planning Web page
• PandemicFlu.gov Home Health Care Services Checklist (PDF)
• PandemicFlu.gov Medical Offices and Clinics Checklist (PDF)
• PandemicFlu.gov Emergency Medical Service and Medical Transport Checklist (PDF)
• PandemicFlu.gov Hospital Preparedness Checklist
• PandemicFlu.gov Long-Term Care and Other Residential Facilities Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist (PDF)