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H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak Spreads to 51 U.S. Dairy Herds, Human Cases Reported in Victoria

May 22, 2024, 03:54 PM

The recent outbreak of H5N1 bird flu has raised significant concerns globally, particularly with its spread to dairy cows in the United States. The virus has been detected in 51 dairy herds across nine states, leading to increased testing and surveillance efforts. In the U.S., two human cases have been reported, with infections detected through eye swabs rather than traditional nasal tests. The outbreak has also impacted dairy farm workers, who are predominantly Hispanic and noncitizen immigrants, and often lack health coverage. The U.S. government is in talks with Moderna and Pfizer to develop mRNA-based vaccines for H5N1. Meanwhile, the UK has received samples of the virus for testing at Porton Down, and Australia has reported a human case in Victoria, although the strain differs from the one in the U.S. (identified as H7). Efforts are underway to ramp up vaccine production and improve surveillance, including wastewater testing. Public health officials, including the CDC, emphasize the need for preparedness and enhanced protections for farm workers.