• Bird Flu Tracker Avian Influenza A H5N1

  • By: Quiet. Please
  • Podcast

Bird Flu Tracker Avian Influenza A H5N1

By: Quiet. Please
  • Summary

  • Avian influenza or bird flu refers to the disease caused by infection with avian (bird) influenza (flu) Type A viruses. These viruses naturally spread among wild aquatic birds worldwide and can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species. Bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans. However, sporadic human infections with bird flu viruses have occurred.

    for more info go to https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/index.htm
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Episodes
  • Bird Flu update for 02-19-2025
    Feb 19 2025
    As of the last 48 hours, the H5 bird flu, also known as avian influenza, continues to be a significant public health and agricultural concern, particularly in the United States.

    In the U.S., the bird flu outbreak remains widespread, with detections in wild birds across 51 jurisdictions and outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows in several states. As of February 18, 2025, over 12,064 wild birds have been detected with the virus, and approximately 162.6 million poultry have been affected[1].

    Recent reports indicate that about 67 human cases of avian flu have been documented, with one reported death. These cases are primarily among individuals who have close contact with infected animals, such as dairy and poultry workers[2].

    New York State has taken proactive measures to combat the spread of the virus. Following the detection of avian influenza in seven live bird markets in Queens, the Bronx, and Brooklyn, the state has issued a Notice and Order requiring live bird markets in affected areas to sell down their inventory, undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection, and remain closed for a minimum of five days. This measure aims to break the transmission cycle of the virus within these markets[3].

    Despite these efforts, the risk to humans is still considered low. New York City Mayor Eric Adams and health officials have reassured the public that there have been no human cases of H5N1 in New York City or the state, and no human-to-human transmission has been detected in the U.S.[5].

    Health officials are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures and surveillance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is using its flu surveillance systems to track H5 bird flu activity in people and is working with state health departments to monitor individuals with animal exposures[1].

    Globally, the H5 bird flu continues to be a concern due to its widespread presence in wild birds and its potential to adapt and spread among different species. The ongoing monitoring and preventive measures are crucial in mitigating the risk of a larger outbreak and potential pandemic.

    In summary, while the current public health risk from the bird flu remains low, the ongoing outbreaks in animals and the occasional human cases necessitate continued vigilance and proactive measures to prevent further spread and protect both animal and public health.
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    3 mins
  • Bird Flu update for 02-18-2025
    Feb 18 2025
    As of the last 48 hours, the bird flu situation in the US and globally continues to evolve with significant developments.

    In the United States, the bird flu outbreak remains widespread, affecting both wild birds and domestic poultry. As of February 14, 2025, the CDC has reported that 159,307,978 poultry have been affected, and 51 jurisdictions have detected bird flu in wild birds, with 11,966 wild birds identified as of February 11, 2025[1].

    Recently, a rare strain of the bird flu, H5N9, was detected on a duck farm in California, marking the first confirmed case of H5N9 in poultry in the US. This discovery, along with the more common H5N1 strain found on the same farm, has prompted comprehensive epidemiological investigations and enhanced surveillance[2].

    Another concerning development is the detection of a new strain, D1.1, in dairy cows for the first time. This strain, previously limited to wild birds and poultry, has now been found in cattle in several states, including Nevada, where it caused a human case in a dairy farm worker. The D1.1 strain is associated with more severe disease in humans, as seen in cases in British Columbia and Louisiana[3].

    The CDC has emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low, and there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission. However, experts are concerned about the potential for mutations that could facilitate human-to-human transmission, especially as the virus continues to circulate among animals and humans. Enhanced surveillance and testing, including for asymptomatic workers, have been recommended to monitor the situation closely[3].

    As of late January 2025, about 67 human cases of bird flu have been reported in the US, resulting in one death. The virus has been documented in birds in every state and in dairy cows in 16 states. Public health officials and infectious disease experts stress the importance of continued monitoring and updated guidance to mitigate the public health threat[4].

    Globally, while there are no recent updates within the last 48 hours, the ongoing spread of bird flu in various regions underscores the need for continuous vigilance. The virus's ability to adapt and potentially mutate raises concerns about its future impact on human health.

    In summary, the bird flu situation in the US is marked by widespread outbreaks in poultry and wild birds, the emergence of new strains, and concerns about potential mutations. While the current public health risk is considered low, ongoing surveillance and public health measures are crucial to managing this evolving situation.
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    3 mins
  • Bird Flu update for 02-17-2025
    Feb 17 2025
    As of the latest updates, the H5 bird flu, also known as avian influenza A(H5N1), continues to be a significant concern in the United States and globally. Here are the key points from recent developments:

    ### Outbreaks and Cases
    The bird flu outbreak remains widespread in the U.S., with cases reported in every state and the territory of Puerto Rico. As of late January 2025, there have been 67 reported human cases of H5N1 avian influenza in the U.S., resulting in one death, a 65-year-old Louisiana man with underlying health conditions who was likely exposed to the virus from wild birds and a non-commercial backyard flock[2][3][5].

    ### Animal Infections
    The virus has affected a large number of animals, including over 12 million birds in the last 30 days, involving 54 commercial flocks and 55 backyard flocks. Additionally, there have been 928 dairy herd infections in 16 states, primarily in California[3].

    ### Public Health Risk
    Despite the increasing number of cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to assess the public health risk as low for the general public. However, certain groups such as farm workers, backyard bird flock owners, animal care workers, and public health responders are at a higher risk due to their exposure to sick animals or their byproducts[1][3][5].

    ### Recent Developments
    In Maryland, the bird flu outbreak has led to the confirmation of highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza in several commercial poultry farms and a backyard flock. State officials have quarantined affected premises and depopulated the birds to prevent the spread of the disease. No infected meat or eggs have entered the food supply[3][4].

    ### Health Advisory
    The CDC has issued a health advisory urging healthcare workers to accelerate testing for avian influenza A(H5N1) in patients hospitalized with flu symptoms. Healthcare providers are recommended to perform tests within 24 hours of hospital admission and start antiviral treatment immediately without waiting for test results[5].

    ### Global Context
    While the current focus is on the U.S. outbreaks, it is important to note that H5 bird flu is widespread in wild birds worldwide. The global monitoring and response efforts are critical in managing the spread and potential risks associated with this virus.

    ### Safety Measures
    To prevent the spread of avian influenza, poultry and livestock owners are advised to adopt strict biosecurity measures, including daily monitoring for signs of illness, reporting suspected cases, and ensuring proper handling and hygiene practices. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has also emphasized that pasteurized milk and properly cooked poultry and eggs remain safe for consumption[3][4].

    In summary, while the bird flu situation is being closely monitored and managed, the risk to the general public remains low. However, continued vigilance and adherence to biosecurity measures are crucial in mitigating the spread of the virus.
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    3 mins

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