General Information

Some types of Influenza (flu) A viruses naturally spread among certain species of animals and can spill over to infect domestic animal species and humans. Swine influenza is a respiratory disease that commonly spreads in populations of pigs. Avian influenza is a respiratory disease that naturally spreads among wild water birds and can spread to domestic poultry (chickens, turkeys, etc.) and other birds. It is possible that both swine and avian influenza can spread to people who have contact with sick animals and make humans sick. People who raise pigs or poultry can take simple steps to reduce the risk of influenza for animals and humans.

For more information about influenza in animals, visit:

• Maine Department of Agriculture Home Page
• Maine Department of Agriculture's Animal Health and Industry Disease Information

Information for people who work with dairy cattle

• Avian Influenza (H5N1) guidance for farm workers (PDF) | Guía sobre el H5N1 para trabajadores de granjas (PDF)
• Protect Yourself from H5N1 PPE Fact Sheet (PDF) | Protejase del Virus H5N1 (PDF)
• Maine CDC Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Request Form (.xslx) | also in (PDF)

Information for people who raise poultry

Information for people who raise pigs

• What People Who Raise Pigs Need to Know About Influenza
• How Flu Can Spread between Pigs and People (PDF)
• Guidance for Workers Employed at Commercial Swine Farms
• US CDC Information on Swine/Variant Influenza
• USDA Influenza in Swine