US authorities said that H5N1 avian influenza A (bird flu) virus (HPAI H5N1) is still a low risk to humans. Health experts believe that current treatment and vaccines, as well as those in the pipeline, can effectively prevent severe disease.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other American health and research departments, however, are closely monitoring the virus and evaluating the potential threat of any changes,
Michael G. Ison, M.D., M.S., and Jeanne M. Marrazzo, M.D., M.P.H., both from NIAID, emphasize the need to balance ‘business as usual’ with ‘enhanced vigilance’ regarding HPAI H5N1.
They shared their findings and opinions in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine (citation below).
Bird Flu – Brief Background
For nearly thirty years, HPAI H5N1 influenza viruses have circulated in 23+ countries. Towards the end of 2021, HPAI H5N1 reached North America from Europe, causing occasional infections in poultry farms and among wild birds.
In 2022, the virus made its way down to Mexico and then South America, where it devastated birds and marine mammals, such as sea lions, fur seals, and dolphins.
Scientists at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) identified HPAI H5N1 in American dairy cows in March 2024. During that year, herds in 16 states became infected.
The Cleveland Clinic has the following description of Bird Flu (Avian Influenza):
“Avian influenza, commonly called “bird flu,” is a viral infection that spreads in birds, cows and other animals. It can sometimes spread to people. In humans, H5 subtypes of influenza A are the most common cause.”
“It can cause mild to severe respiratory symptoms and pink eye. People who work with poultry, waterfowl, and dairy cows are most at risk.”
Suspected Human Cases of Bird Flu
In the last 30 days, the virus has been found in dairy herds across three U.S. states, according to USDA/APHIS.
So far in 2024, there have been 66 confirmed and 7 suspected human cases of bird flu in the U.S., as well as one case in Canada.
These infections were caused by two types of the virus: one primarily affecting birds (D1.1) and another linked to dairy cows (B3.13).
Controlling the Outbreak
Drs. Ison and Marrazo say the following are key to controlling and combating the current bird flu outbreak:
Timely and effective collaboration among researchers in public health, healthcare, veterinary and human medicine, as well as occupational workers, is crucial. Examples of occupational workers include those employed in dairy and poultry farming.
It is important to cultivate trust between all collaborating entities as well as with individuals who seek care for signs and symptoms of concern, such as conjunctivitis, fever, or…