H5N1 Bird Flu in Dairy Cows: Current Situation and Risk to Humans
The Current Situation
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, has been detected in dairy cows in the United States. Since March 2024, the virus has infected 36 herds in nine states, raising concerns about the potential risk to humans.
Risk to Humans
While H5N1 is primarily a bird virus, it has the potential to infect humans through close contact with infected birds or animals. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness in humans, and in some cases, it can be fatal. However, the risk of human infection from HPAI H5N1 is considered low in the United States.
Current Response
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to prevent the spread of the virus. These measures include:
- Implementing quarantine measures for affected herds
- Testing animals for HPAI H5N1
- Educating farmers and the public about the virus
- Developing vaccines for poultry and livestock
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