Definition: Influenza, commonly called "the Flu", is a highly contagious viral illness sometimes contracted, carried, and transmitted through birds. All species can be affected, and any strain of flu can potentially infect a bird (not just H5N1 "Avian Flu".) People can catch influenza from affected birds by contact with their waste or other bodily fluids, or through contact with surfaces that have been contaminated with such substances.
Pronunciation: in-flew-in-za
Also Known As: The Flu, Flu
Examples:
Avian influenza is still seen throughout the world, even though the swine flu is currently making headlines.
