Global Spread of HPAI A(H5N1) Virus in Animals Raises Concerns

In the United States, multiple states have reported cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) bird flu in cattle. This outbreak was first seen on March 25, 2024. It is the first time that this bird flu virus is found in cattle.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that a person who was been around dairy cattle in Texas got infected with HPAI A(H5N1). This is the first time this virus is passed from mammals to humans.  

The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) has been continuously tracking the number of HPAI A(H5N1) virus infection cases in mammals since 2022. Over 200 cases of bird flu have been reported. This number shows how severe it is and needs more attention.  

Mammals can usually get infected when they consume infected birds, poultry, and other animals or when they are exposed to environments contaminated with the virus. The number of cases of transmission of this virus from mammal to mammal is very low. But it can increase after some time.  

On a global level, cases of HPAI A (H5N1) virus infections in animals are found in Asia, South America, North America, and Europe. Recent cases are found in various species such as sea elephants in Argentina, foxes in Canada and sea lions in Peru and Chile. 

As this infection is found in wild birds, chickens and cows, it increases the risk for normal people. But according to the CDC the overall risk of getting infected with this virus is still low in general public. On the other hand, the risk is higher for people who work or stay around infected birds or animals. 

The CDC has given some recommendations regarding testing, treatment and prevention of HPAI A(H5N1) infection to stop this from spreading even more. These steps are very important as they can help us stop this outbreak.  

According to CDC, HPAI A(H5N1) infection has the potential to cause a pandemic. So, it is very important to make vaccines to fight against it. People need to be very careful and should take some preventive steps to reduce the risk of bird flu to stop a possible pandemic. Healthcare professionals and the government should stay alert and make some effective strategies to stop the spread of HPAI A(H5N1) infections.  

Reference Link: 

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/mammals.htm