Information for Travelers

Warden Information

Avian Flu in Albania

Today, March 8, 2006, the Albanian government reported the presence of the H5N1 Avian Influenza virus among domesticated birds in the village of Cuka, near Saranda. The finding was confirmed by a World Health Organization-recognized laboratory in the United Kingdom. This is the first confirmed appearance of H5N1 in birds in Albania. There have been no reports of illness or death in humans as a result of the presence of the virus in the bird population.

Albanian officials implemented immediate measures to contain spread of the virus, including culling of birds within three kilometers of the site and the establishment of a ten-kilometer quarantine zone in accordance with European Union procedures. They are working closely with international agriculture and health experts.

The U.S. Department of State’s "Avian Flu Fact Sheet" http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/health/health_1181.html contains important information about avian influenza, including Frequently Asked Questions, and contains links to avian influenza information from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The official U.S. government Web site for information on pandemic and avian influenza can be found at http://www.pandemicflu.gov The Embassy urges all Americans in Albania to monitor these websites as they are updated with current and accurate information.

The Embassy also encourages Americans in Albania to register with the Embassy. You can register online at https://travelregistration.state.gov The Embassy is located at Rruga Elbasanit 103, Tirana, Albania. The telephone number is +355-(0)4-224-7285/89.

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except holidays).