As bird flu continues its global spread, experts are raising alarms about the potential for a new pandemic. Since October 2021, over 300 million poultry birds have been culled, and the virus has reached unexpected regions like Antarctica. Recently, the H5N1 strain began infecting U.S. dairy cows, with researchers warning that it’s “just a simple step” away from mutating into a form that could spread more effectively among humans. Epidemiologist Meg Schaeffer cautioned, “Avian flu is knocking on our door and could start a new pandemic any day.”
Despite the concerning developments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the current risk to the general public is low. However, human infections are being detected, with 58 cases reported in the U.S. this year alone. Worryingly, some infections had no direct exposure to infected animals, indicating potential undetected transmission. Research from Michigan and Colorado also revealed a 7% infection rate among dairy workers, heightening concerns about the virus adapting to humans.
To mitigate the risks, experts emphasize the need for rigorous testing, international collaboration, and careful oversight of policies regarding raw milk, a potential vector for contamination. As Schaeffer starkly noted, “If a bird flu pandemic was to break out, it would be remarkably severe in humans because we have no built-up immunity.” Scientists are urging governments to act swiftly, as antiviral treatments and vaccines are already available to counter this looming threat.
Source: Barron’s #BirdFlu #H5N1
