Avian or bird flu has been making a lot of headlines as it spreads. But what’s real and what’s hype? Nigeria was added to the list of countries that have experienced avian flu-related deaths in January, but the number of overall deaths attributed to bird flu is quite low considering the amount of press the disease has received. Frankly, avian flu will probably remain a minimal threat in its present form.

The real danger is a mutation that allows it to spread more easily. But until then, simple precautions should keep you safe from the bird flu, even when you’re traveling to parts of the world where the disease has caused deaths. Avoid poultry farms and prolonged exposure to fowl in Asia, Africa, and Europe. Don’t eat poultry that hasn’t been cooked thoroughly and prepared properly. And remember, domestic or wild, any bird is a potential carrier, so watch out for duck and goose meat, too, not just chicken.