I believe the migratory flight patterns vary upon the type of birds, but according this article I read, testing will be done first in Alaska and the
west coast, so those might be the most favorable locations for a first strike.
With avian flu spreading, U.S. to expand its testing
Starting in April, samples from 75,000 to 100,000 birds will be tested for the virus, mainly in Alaska, as part of a joint effort of the
departments of Agriculture and Interior, along with state Fish & Wildlife agencies. That's a jump from the 12,000 birds tested since 1996, the
USDA's Angela Harless says. (Related item: Graphic: Migratory path of birds)
The expanded program, which will include birds in the Pacific islands and on the West Coast, reflects growing concern that the virus, highly
pathogenic A (H5N1), which has spread across Asia and Europe, could arrive in North America as soon as this spring and be carried into the western
continental USA by fall.
[edit on 3-17-2006 by worldwatcher]
