USDA reports or industry publications

US Faces Growing H5N1 Bird Flu Concerns: 45 Tested, 20% Milk Supply Affected

Jun 20, 2024, 04:51 PM

The H5N1 bird flu outbreak in the United States is causing significant concern among health officials and experts. The USDA has identified ways in which the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has likely spread in Michigan dairy and poultry operations. Colorado has reported two more herds testing positive for H5N1. Experts warn that the virus could mutate and spread efficiently among humans, potentially leading to another pandemic. The CDC has only tested about 45 people for the virus, raising concerns about the adequacy of current testing efforts. Additionally, the CDC is working on validating an H5 assay for broader use in wastewater surveillance across the U.S. The World Health Organization considers the virus a public health concern due to its potential to cause a pandemic. Virus genetic material has been found in 20% of the milk supply. The CDC has urged dairy workers to don masks and goggles, though this may not be practical. Colorado officials are advocating for a One Health strategic plan.