The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns about the spread of the H5N1 bird flu virus, which has caused outbreaks since 2020 leading to the deaths of tens of millions of poultry. The virus is now spreading to mammal species, increasing the risk of spillover to humans.
Surprisingly, experts have found that cows and goats are also being affected by the virus. In the US, a human infection was reported after contact with infected dairy cattle. While there is currently no evidence of human-to-human spread, the mortality rate in humans is high.
So far, there have been 889 cases and 463 deaths reported worldwide from 23 countries. A recent case in the US highlights the increased risk of human infection. In response, the WHO is calling for increased monitoring and the development of vaccines to combat the spread of the virus.
Efforts are also underway to ensure capacity for diagnosis and response to potential outbreaks. The WHO stresses the need for equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics to ensure preparedness. Additionally, the importance of response capabilities in the event of human-to-human transmission is emphasized.
It is crucial for countries to prioritize the monitoring and containment of the H5N1 bird flu virus to prevent further outbreaks and protect public health. Stay tuned to Poh Diaries for updates on this developing situation.
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