Avian influenza (bird flu) is spreading, with a new, more concerning strain detected in Nevada dairy cattle. Virus has also been found in pet cats, raising the alarm about potential transmission to humans.
A new strain of avian influenza ( bird flu ), known as H5N1 genotype D1.1, has been detected in dairy cattle in Nevada , raising concerns about the potential for human exposure . This strain, more commonly found in wild birds and poultry, has been linked to severe human infections in the past. The discovery of this strain in cattle, different from the one circulating since March, suggests a potential challenge in eradicating the virus from livestock due to its reintroduction by wild birds.
Adding to the worries, the virus has been identified in pet cats, suggesting a possible transmission pathway to humans. While cases of humans contracting H5N1 from drinking raw milk or consuming raw pet food have been reported, this is the first known instance of a cat infecting a human in the current outbreak. This finding highlights the potential role of house cats as vectors for spreading the virus to people.To address the escalating situation, the Biden administration has appointed Dr. Jennifer Parker as the new White House pandemic response coordinator. Parker, a renowned expert in infectious diseases, will play a crucial role in coordinating the federal government's response to the bird flu outbreak and potential pandemics. Her experience at Texas A&M University and the National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity (NSABB) equips her to handle this critical task.Meanwhile, New York State has implemented a precautionary measure by closing all live bird markets in New York City and surrounding counties for cleaning and disinfection. This order follows the detection of H5N1 at several bird farms in the city. The closure affects approximately 80 markets in New York City and Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties, requiring them to sell their inventory, undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection, and remain closed for five days afterward. Markets with confirmed virus presence in their flocks will also need to comply with quarantine and culling instructions.The impact of the bird flu outbreak has also been felt in New York City's zoos, where several ducks and other birds have died from confirmed or suspected H5N1 infections. The Queens Zoo reported the deaths of three Hooded Merganser ducks that tested positive for the virus. The Bronx Zoo is awaiting test results for nine wild birds and three ducks that died, while staff are taking proactive measures to prevent further spread among animals. Although the threat to human visitors remains low, officials are closely monitoring the situation.
Bird Flu H5N1 Avian Influenza Pandemic Public Health Nevada Cats Human Exposure Jennifer Parker White House Pandemic Response Coordinator New York State Zoos
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