Bird Flu Cases on the Rise

Bird Flu Cases on the Rise

The H5 strain of bird flu is currently prevalent in the United States, with 46 human cases reported in 2024. Sources of infection include dairy cattle (25 cases), poultry (20 cases), and one case in Missouri of unknown origin.

A previously healthy Canadian teenager is in critical condition after contracting bird flu, with no traced source and no known farm exposure.

The first U.S. case of bird flu in pigs was found on an Oregon farm, raising concerns as pigs are known to carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans.

The CDC has stated that the risk to the general public remains low, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus.

Each human infection presents a chance for the virus to mutate. If it acquires the ability to spread person-to-person, a pandemic could arise. The population has relatively low immunity to the H5 strain, leading to uncertain consequences.

Virologist Jeremy Rossman emphasizes the danger of flu pandemics and highlights uncertainties around the H5 strain. He warns of severe outcomes from human-to-human transmission, particularly during winter flu season.

Historically, bird flu has exhibited high mortality rates (up to 60%). Recent U.S. cases, however, have been mild, with symptoms like mild respiratory issues and conjunctivitis. Whether a mutation would cause severe or mild disease remains unknown.

The need for lockdowns would depend on the virus’s mutation type and the severity of its human-to-human spread.

The current bird flu outbreak does not pose a significant threat to the general public but remains a critical concern due to its mutation potential. Experts are closely monitoring the situation, given the historically severe impact of flu pandemics.