Federal officials confirm low public risk despite bird flu’s expansion to livestock and a Texas person’s infection.
Bird flu outbreaks continue to challenge US livestock, expanding its reach beyond poultry. Federal officials confirmed the virus’s presence in cows, marking a first for the US. Cases have emerged in five states, alongside a Texas individual’s infection and an egg farm’s closure. The situation prompts increased monitoring and biosecurity efforts.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza, known as HPAI, has devastated wildlife globally. Its spread to cows, seen as an anomaly, likely came from wild birds found dead on farms. One Texan, exposed to the infected cows, tested positive for HPAI, showing mild symptoms but is recovering. Despite this, the risk to the general public remains low, with health authorities closely monitoring the situation.
Texas, Kansas, Idaho, Michigan, and New Mexico report infected dairy herds. The Michigan case links back to Texas, raising concerns about cow-to-cow transmission. The virus, primarily affecting wild birds, has also impacted various mammals, indicating its wide-ranging influence. The Centers for Disease Control and Protection report a low risk to people, highlighted by the mild symptoms in the two US human cases.
Cal-Maine Foods, facing an outbreak in a Texas facility, culled millions of hens. This action reflects the broader impact on poultry, causing significant bird deaths and affecting egg and poultry prices. The outbreak’s effect on beef and milk prices remains uncertain, with minimal impact seen on dairy herds. Strict measures ensure infected milk does not reach consumers, with pasteurization eliminating the virus.
However, the outbreak’s spread to different species underscores the potential for new virus strains. Researchers are vigilant, checking for mutations that could indicate a higher risk to humans. Despite the challenges, authorities maintain that the public risk is low, focusing on containment and prevention efforts
