The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports dangerous mutations in the bird flu virus that could indicate potential pandemic risk. The first severe case of bird flu in the United States was recorded in early December in Louisiana. This has raised serious concerns about genetic changes in the virus that could make it more transmissible among humans.
According to the CDC, this case has become a "red flag" indicating the possibility of a change in the characteristics of the A(H5N1) virus. Center specialists note that although the risk to the population currently remains low, several factors, such as changes in the genetics of the virus and the possibility of transmission from person to person, can significantly change the situation.
Experts note that the virus can quickly adapt to spread among people through contact with infected animals. According to statistics, bird flu infects people after direct contact with infected birds or their feces, which gives additional reasons for fears about the number of cases.
The CDC actively monitors bird flu cases around the world, with more than 65 cases in the U.S. this year, including a severe case in Louisiana. Despite the absence of signs of human-to-human transmission of the virus at the moment, all these cases point to possible threats in the future. The A(H5N1) virus circulating among animals can mutate and become capable of easier transmission between humans.
One of the largest outbreaks of bird flu was recorded in California, where 37 cases of the disease were registered. This became the basis for declaring a state of emergency in the state. As a result of the increase in the incidence of bird flu among wild animals, particularly birds, the risk of infection to humans increases.
The CDC emphasizes the need to closely monitor further changes in the virus to prevent its spread among the population. Monitoring of this situation is ongoing and any changes that may indicate human-to-human transmission of the virus are of serious concern.
The CDC urges caution and safety precautions when handling birds and other animals that may carry the virus. To limit the spread of the virus, it is important to detect and isolate infected animals in a timely manner, as well as to observe hygiene and other precautions.
It is noted that at present, mutations of the virus remain rare, and the increase in human cases is due to increased incidence in the wild. However, scientists warn of the need to continue monitoring and be ready to react quickly to possible changes in the behavior of the virus.
