Bird flu on the rise: is a pandemic in sight?

Bird flu on the rise: is a pandemic in sight?

Bird flu is causing growing concern in the United States because the dangerous H5N1 virus is spreading rapidly among cattle. The first human case was originally documented in spring 2024, in which a person became infected through contact with an infectious cow. The number of affected herds has now risen to over 720, alarming virologists. The U.S. authorities, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, have now ordered milk tests nationwide in order to detect new infections early and contain the spread of the virus. These measures are crucial because there is a risk that dangerous mutations will develop that could facilitate transmission to humans, as Welt.de reports.

One mutation is enough

A new study from the Scripps Research Institute also found that the H5N1 virus only needs one mutation to spread among people. Experts warn that this crucial genetic step carries the potential for widespread human infection and possibly a pandemic. Although there have been over 50 known cases of H5N1 infection in humans in the United States, most have occurred through direct contact with contaminated products, such as [Los Angeles Times]. The ongoing outbreaks on farms provide an opportunity for the virus to develop crucial mutations that could increase transmissibility to humans.

With the continued increase in H5N1 infections in agriculture, particularly in California, and repeated reports of spill-over infections, the overall situation remains tense. The authorities emphasize the urgency of closely monitoring the situation and greatly minimizing any risk of infection for people. Collaboration between experts and governments is needed now more than ever to address potential threats from these mutable virus strains.