(Source-abcnews.go_.com)
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has reported three new human cases of the bird flu H5N1 virus in the United States, heightening concerns over the recent surge in animal-to-human transmission. The outbreak, which has wreaked havoc on poultry and dairy farms, has now affected a total of 13 people this year.
Surge in Animal-to-Human Transmission
Since April, 10 farm workers have contracted the highly contagious H5N1 virus, which has infected 100 million birds across the US. The virus has now spread to cows and humans, creating a new wave of concern. The latest cases were identified in Colorado, where two farms, with a combined total of three million birds, have been identified as the epicenters of the bird-to-human transmissions.
Despite the increase in human cases, the CDC reassures the public that the situation remains under control. According to the agency, “all three people have mild illness” and have been treated with antiviral medication. The CDC also emphasized that the risk to the general public “remains low.”
Increased Testing and Surveillance
In response to the outbreak, US authorities are intensifying testing across the state. With the bird flu virus now detected in over 170 dairy herds, milk products have come under scrutiny. Virologist Angela Rasmussen, a researcher at the University of Saskatchewan’s Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, highlighted the potential severity of the outbreak. She stated, “We are looking at, potentially, a huge outbreak that is still expanding, and still growing, and that is not containable.”
Drawing parallels to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rasmussen warned that even a few cases of H5N1 virus could escalate into a significant health crisis. She explained, “That increases the risk of more and more human cases, which in turn increases the risk that this virus will become better adapted to humans.”
Risk of Human-to-Human Transmission
While none of the current human H5N1 virus infections have demonstrated the ability to transmit between people, Rasmussen cautioned that continued infections elevate the risk of such a development. This potential shift could have far-reaching implications for public health.
The recent bird flu H5N1 virus outbreak in the United States has highlighted the importance of vigilant monitoring and rapid response. With 13 human cases reported this year and the virus spreading among poultry and dairy herds, the CDC and other health authorities are on high alert. While the risk to the general public remains low, the situation underscores the need for continued surveillance and preparedness to prevent a wider health crisis.
