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Bird Flu update for 02-06-2025
As of the last 48 hours, the H5 bird flu situation continues to be closely monitored by health officials globally, particularly in the United States. Here are the key updates:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that as of February 5, 2025, there have been 11,627 wild birds detected with the virus, and 51 jurisdictions in the U.S. have identified bird flu in wild birds. The outbreak has also affected a significant number of poultry, with 153,866,301 birds impacted[1].
The CDC has emphasized that while the current public health risk remains low, there is a heightened risk for individuals with job- or recreation-related exposures to infected animals. These include farmers, dairy workers, backyard bird flock owners, animal care workers, and those with recreational exposure to animals such as hunters and wild bird watchers. These groups are advised to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow specific prevention and mitigation strategies[2].
Since the outbreak began in late March 2024, there have been sporadic human infections, primarily among those with direct exposure to infected animals. As of December 31, 2024, the CDC and its partners have monitored over 10,600 people following exposure to infected animals, testing more than 540 and identifying 63 reported cases of H5 bird flu. No human-to-human transmission of the virus has been identified in the U.S., and limited, non-sustained human-to-human transmission has not been reported globally since 2007[2].
The CDC, in collaboration with federal, state, and local partners, has been actively engaged in a coordinated response. This includes funding over $200 million to support state and local health departments, characterizing viruses in the laboratory, updating guidance for clinicians and at-risk populations, and conducting special laboratory studies. There is also ongoing planning for a potential H5 vaccination program should it become necessary[2].
Globally, the H5N1 bird flu has been circulating among wild birds for decades, leading to periodic outbreaks in commercial poultry and backyard bird flocks, as well as infections in wild terrestrial and marine mammals and domesticated animals. Since 1997, more than 970 human infections with H5N1 have been reported from 24 countries, with a fatality rate of approximately 50%[2].
Public health officials continue to stress the importance of vigilance, particularly if the virus mutates to become more transmissible. The current form of the virus does not spread from human to human, but mutations could change this scenario. Health experts like Dr. Emily Landon from the University of Chicago Medicine advise that, unless one is around livestock or sick birds, there is no need for excessive worry, but vigilance is crucial[3].
In summary, while the immediate public health risk from H5 bird flu is considered low, ongoing surveillance, monitoring, and preparedness efforts are critical to manage the situation effectively, especially for those at higher risk due to their occupational or recreational activities.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
Published on 10 months, 3 weeks ago