What to know about the risks of the bird flu outbreak

The recent occurrence of avian influenza in dairy cattle in the United States has caused concern, even among scientists who have been monitoring the global spread of the virus in recent years.

Richard Webby, a virologist at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, acknowledges the considerable uncertainties surrounding the situation: “There’s a lot we don’t know right now.”

The extent of the virus’s presence in dairy cattle remains unclear, as does its potential implications for human health. The emergence of the H5N1 bird flu strain in North America initially affected wild migratory birds towards the end of 2021, subsequently spreading to poultry farms. Now, cases are being reported among dairy cows, as well as at a major egg producer. Additionally, one individual who had close contact with the infected cows has contracted the virus.

“This specific variant of the H5N1 virus is challenging our understanding of flu,” remarks Webby.

The ongoing outbreak has impacted a wider range of wild bird species compared to previous incidents and has endured for a longer duration. Moreover, the virus has been detected more frequently in mammals, both in their natural habitats and on farms, occasionally resulting in a surge of infections and fatalities.

“We’re facing a situation that is quite unprecedented and unfamiliar on a global scale concerning avian influenza,” comments Dr. Peter Rabinowitz, who serves as the director of the UW Center for One Health Research.

However, federal officials and scientists emphasize that the risk to the general public remains minimal.

As of now, there is no indication that the virus has undergone mutations that would substantially increase its danger level. Although worrisome, the single human case reported is consistent with the typical mode of transmission for these viruses, which involves direct contact with an infected animal.

Nonetheless, scientists are closely monitoring this outbreak. Here’s additional insight into what they are discovering.

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