The bird flu threat keeps growing

undefined 30, 2024

Source: wired

Human cases of avian influenza (H5N1) are rising and likely underreported, raising concerns about the virus adapting to mammalian hosts. The virus has severely impacted poultry and wild birds worldwide and has recently infected dairy cows in the US. Since April, 13 US cases have been confirmed, mostly among poultry workers in Colorado. The CDC reports mild symptoms in these cases and maintains that the public risk remains low. Historical data shows H5N1 has a high mortality rate, but current infections are less severe. Ongoing investigations aim to understand the virus’s spread and adaptation.

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