The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting dangerous mutations in the bird flu virus that could indicate a potential pandemic risk. The first severe case of bird flu in the United States was reported in early December in Louisiana. This has raised serious concerns about genetic changes in the virus that could make it more capable of transmitting to humans.
According to the CDC, this case is a “red flag” indicating that the characteristics of the A(H5N1) virus may be changing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that while the risk to the public remains low at this time, several factors, such as changes in the virus’s genetics and the ability to transmit from person to person, could significantly change the situation.
Experts say the virus may be more likely to adapt to spreading among humans through contact with infected animals. According to statistics, bird flu infects people after direct contact with infected birds or their feces, which gives additional grounds for concern about the increase in the number of cases.
The CDC is actively monitoring bird flu cases worldwide, with more than 65 cases in the United States this year, including a severe case in Louisiana. While there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus at this time, all of these cases point to a potential future threat. The A(H5N1) virus circulating in animals may mutate and become more easily transmissible between humans.
One of the largest outbreaks of bird flu has been recorded in California, where 37 cases have been reported. This has led to the declaration of a state of emergency in the state. As a result of the increase in the incidence of bird flu in wild animals, especially birds, the risk of infection for humans is increasing.
The CDC emphasizes the need to closely monitor further changes in the virus to prevent its spread in the population. Surveillance 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. Early identification and isolation of infected animals, as well as good hygiene and other precautions, are important to limit the spread of the virus.
It is noted that at the moment mutations of the virus remain rare, and the increase in cases in humans has occurred due to increased incidence in the wild. However, scientists warn of the need to continue monitoring and be ready to respond quickly to possible changes in the behavior of the virus.
