Tag Archives: Flu

Bird Flu Cases Surge Rapidly Despite Summer Season

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The summer was notably calm regarding bird flu. There was a slight decrease in egg prices, a reduction in the number of poultry flocks being culled, and authorities remained hopeful.

“It was remarkable,” mentioned Shauna Voss, the deputy director of the Minnesota Animal Health Commission.

However, this tranquility didn’t continue.

As wild waterfowl, including geese, ducks, and cranes, commenced their seasonal migration, avian influenza has begun to spread once more. The migrating birds interact in lakes and ponds, facilitating the exchange of viruses.

In the poultry sector, avian influenza cases are rising more rapidly than anticipated. In states like Minnesota and Iowa, over 4 million birds have been culled in the past month after tests confirmed the presence of the H5N1 virus within their flocks. This increase coincides with a notable rise in infections observed in wild birds in northern regions.

State officials are preparing for a challenging fall, a season known for escalating case numbers.

“We confirmed our first positive case last week,” stated Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. This incident originated from a turkey farm in Calhoun County. “The real concern is how widespread this will become and what the fall season holds for us.”

Naig noted it’s still early to determine the outbreak’s impact on egg prices.

“The most honest answer is that we will have to wait and see. I wish I could provide more clarity,” Naig added.

This marks the fourth consecutive fall with rising bird flu infections, suggesting the virus is becoming endemic among wild birds and could continually threaten poultry.

“It’s not disappearing. It appears to be quite established,” Voss remarked.

The further the virus spreads, the higher the risk of it mutating to infect humans effectively. Some experts are concerned that budget cuts by the Trump administration on mRNA research could hinder scientists’ rapid development of new vaccines. Nevertheless, the current public health risk remains minimal.

As autumn progresses, authorities, wildlife specialists, and virologists are adopting a vigilant but patient stance.

“These times are intriguing,” noted Declan Schroeder, an associate professor of virology at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. “Everyone is watching closely to see the outcome.”

Avian influenza was initially spotted in U.S. commercial flocks in February 2022, following earlier outbreaks among wild birds. Nearly all infected poultry succumb, with over 175 million birds culled or killed by this summer. Two years ago, it was unexpectedly found that avian influenza had moved to dairy cows and was detected in unpasteurized raw milk, leading to significant changes in agricultural practices and milk testing.

At least 70 people have been infected, primarily farm workers who have close contact with birds and livestock. One fatality has occurred.

Researchers believe that wild birds spread the disease to poultry farms through multiple channels: direct contact, feed contamination, and workers inadvertently carrying the virus into barns. This makes the migration period a significant risk factor for outbreaks.

“If an infected bird migrates through a region and spreads the disease to others, our estimates indicate that the infection can spread rapidly,” explained Michael Ward, a professor focused on migration studies at the University of Illinois.

Ward added that the reduction of natural habitats is forcing birds to gather more closely, increasing the potential for the virus’s spread. In Illinois, wetland areas are declining due to drought conditions.

“This scenario is ideal for the virus to thrive,” Ward noted.

In response to inquiries regarding the uptick in avian influenza detections and the federal government’s course of action, the U.S. Department of Agriculture highlighted a five-pillar strategy announced in February, which allocates $100 million towards new biosecurity measures and vaccine development for poultry.

Countries like France are already vaccinating their poultry, but the Agriculture Department is still deliberating on whether the U.S. should follow suit. No vaccines have been approved yet, and their implementation could affect U.S. exports.

“While we believe an effective vaccination strategy would greatly help egg and turkey producers, we recognize the need for careful implementation to avoid negative impacts on other markets,” Naig explained. “The USDA is currently focused on this, and we are waiting to see what the vaccination strategy entails.”

Scientists have long expressed concerns that avian influenza viruses may eventually adapt to spread efficiently among humans. Although the risk remains low at present, Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, specializing in infectious diseases, recommends that people take precautionary measures to prevent H5N1 and seasonal influenza infections.

“Get vaccinated against the flu. Avoid raw milk or unpasteurized cheese, especially during outbreaks. Don’t feed your cat outdoors during bird migration season,” Chin-Hong urges.

A scenario where humans contract both H5N1 and seasonal influenza simultaneously could pose challenges, as the avian influenza virus might easily mutate its genetic structure to adapt to humans.

The CDC halted H5N1 coordination meetings with healthcare providers earlier this spring. Chin-Hong is critical of this move, advocating for the agency to resume communications and opposing the administration’s decision to reduce funding for mRNA vaccine research. Biotechnology firm Moderna was in the process of creating an avian influenza vaccine utilizing an mRNA platform, but the Health and Human Services Department withdrew its grant.

The CDC has not responded to inquiries for comment.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

COVID-19 and Flu Could Reactivate Dormant Lung Cancer Cells

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Lung tissue samples from mice, depicting cells (blue), cancerous cells (green), and proliferation markers (magenta)

Bryan Johnson

Respiratory viruses are capable of triggering the growth of dormant cancer cells that have metastasized to the lungs from other body areas. Infectious diseases, such as influenza, can instigate an inflammatory response that aids the immune system in combating pathogens, yet they may also adversely influence cancer progression.

Cancer fatalities frequently result from tumor cells migrating from their primary sites. These cells may remain dormant in new locations for extended periods—potentially years or decades—before forming detectable tumors.

While it is uncertain if these cells will eventually proliferate, previous studies have suggested that once cancer cells infiltrate the lungs, inflammation induced by respiratory virus infections might play a significant role. “Nevertheless, no comprehensive research has been conducted to establish a clear cause-and-effect relationship,” notes James DeGregori from the University of Colorado.

To address this research gap, DeGregori and his team employed genetically modified mice to develop tumors in their mammary glands. By two months of age, each mouse had developed a mammary tumor and fewer than ten dormant cancer cells in their lungs.

Subsequently, the researchers infected half of the mice with the H1N1 influenza strain, commonly referred to as swine flu, causing illness for approximately two weeks. During the nine days following the infection, the number of lung cancer cells surged by 100-fold, whereas uninfected mice exhibited minimal changes.

In complementary experiments, the team discovered that the SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19, led to a tenfold increase in cancer cell numbers in the mice’s lungs, again with no significant alterations in uninfected counterparts.

The researchers hypothesized that this expansion occurred due to viral infections elevating the levels of inflammatory molecules known as IL-6.

To investigate this hypothesis, they conducted further experiments with genetically modified mice deficient in IL-6 and found significantly fewer lung cancer cells compared to typical mice with normal IL-6 levels.

Another experiment suggested that IL-6 seemed to rejuvenate dormant cancer cells that had already migrated to the lungs instead of promoting the dissemination of these cells from the breasts.

However, IL-6 levels wane when the infection subsides. At this juncture, the researchers observed that cancer cells in the mouse lungs had ceased to proliferate but had acquired alterations in gene expression typically associated with tumor metastasis, according to DeGregori.

These findings suggest a potential impact on individuals with undetected levels of cancer cells in the lungs who are believed to be in remission, as stated by Anne Zeuner at the National Institutes of Health in Rome, Italy.

To determine the relevance of these findings to humans, researchers analyzed health records from 36,800 women in the U.S. diagnosed with breast cancer before the COVID-19 pandemic, who were thought to be non-metastatic.

Women who tested positive during the initial three years of the outbreak were significantly more likely to receive a diagnosis of secondary lung cancer in that timeframe. However, some women may have avoided testing due to asymptomatic infections, while others might not have sought tests, thereby complicating the validation of this finding, notes DeGregori.

Further research is necessary to corroborate these findings and explore the interactions between various respiratory viruses and cancer types, according to Zeuner. “Individual factors are likely to significantly influence the relationship between respiratory infections and cancer recurrence,” she adds.

The research focused solely on swine flu and SARS-CoV-2, but DeGregori expresses hope that a spectrum of viruses will exhibit similar behaviors, as many are known to elevate IL-6 levels. He also underscores the importance of vaccination, stating, “As a cancer survivor, I would ensure I am protected against common respiratory viruses like influenza and COVID-19,” remarks DeGregori.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How the US Agriculture Organization Played a Crucial Role in Combating Bird Flu

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Prevalent strains of avian flu affecting US livestock

Mediamedium/Alamy

Since the beginning of Donald Trump’s administration in January, key US public health organizations have reduced their pandemic preparedness efforts regarding potential avian flu outbreaks. However, in contrast, another government agency has ramped up its activities.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) previously conducted regular updates on measures to prevent a broader transmission of the deadly avian influenza virus known as H5N1 among humans, but these efforts were largely suspended after Trump took office. Funding for vaccines targeting the virus was also cancelled. Meanwhile, the USDA intensified its fight against the spread of H5N1 in poultry and dairy populations.

This particular strain of avian flu, named H5N1, poses a significant risk to human health, with about half of the nearly 1,000 individuals who tested positive globally since 2003. While the virus spreads quickly among birds, it remains poorly adapted to infect humans and is not known to transmit between individuals. However, mutations might enhance its ability to spread among mammals, presenting an escalating risk with increasing infections in mammals.

The likelihood of H5N1 evolving into a more human-threatening variant has significantly amplified since March 2024, when it transitioned from migratory birds in Texas to dairy cattle. More than 1,070 flocks across 17 states have since been affected.

H5N1 also impacts poultry, making it more human-compatible. Since 2022, nearly 175 million domestic birds in the US have been culled due to H5N1, with 71 people testing positive after direct contact with infected livestock.

“We must take [H5N1] seriously. Its spread continues, and it frequently spills over into humans,” says Sheema Calkdawara from Emory University in Georgia. The virus has already claimed lives in the US, including children in Mexico this year.

However, the number of incidents has minimized since Trump took office, with the last recorded human case in February and a significant reduction in affected poultry herds by 95% from then through June. Outbreaks within dairy cattle herds are also being managed effectively.

The cause of this decline remains unclear. Some speculate it may be due to a decrease in bird migration, limiting the opportunities for the virus to jump from wild birds to livestock. It may also reflect the USDA’s proactive containment strategies on farms. In February, USDA detailed a $1 billion investment plan to combat H5N1, which includes free biosecurity evaluations to help farmers enhance their defenses against the virus. Only one workplace among the 150 reviewed reported an outbreak.

Under Trump’s administration, the USDA also maintained its national milk testing initiative, requiring farms to submit raw milk samples for influenza testing. Should a farm test positive for H5N1, the USDA can monitor livestock and take preventative measures. The USDA initiated a comprehensive program in December, further enhancing their engagement in 45 states.

“The National Milk Test Strategy is a robust approach,” states Erin Sorrell from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland. Coupled with improvements in on-farm biosecurity, milk testing is crucial for containing outbreaks, Sorrell believes.

Despite the USDA’s heightened efforts concerning H5N1, HHS doesn’t seem to be keeping pace. According to Sorrell, the decrease in human cases may also be due to diminished surveillance resulting from staff cuts. In April, HHS announced 10,000 job cuts, impacting 90% of the workforce at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, which monitors H5N1 incidence among farm workers.

“As the saying goes, you can’t detect something unless you test for it,” Sorrell comments. Nevertheless, a spokesperson from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that their guidance and surveillance initiatives remain unchanged. “State and local health departments are still tracking illnesses in individuals exposed to sick animals,” they expressed to New Scientist. “The CDC is dedicated to promptly sharing information regarding H5N1 as necessary.”

Vaccination strategies are another area of contention between USDA and HHS. USDA has allocated $100 million towards the development of vaccines and additional strategies to mitigate H5N1’s spread among livestock, while HHS has halted $776 million in contracts aimed at developing influenza vaccines. This contract, which ended on May 28, was with Moderna for a vaccine targeting various influenza subtypes, including H5N1, potentially leading to future pandemics. This announcement coincided with Moderna revealing that nearly 98% of around 300 participants who received two H5 vaccines in clinical trials exhibited antibody levels considered protective against the virus.

The US currently possesses approximately 5 million doses of the H5N1 vaccine, produced via egg-based and cultured cell methods, which is more time-consuming compared to mRNA vaccines such as Moderna’s. Sorrell observes that Moderna’s mRNA vaccine platform enables rapid government response and production capabilities during a pandemic, providing a solid foundation should a general public vaccine be required.

HHS’s cancellation of its contract stemmed from concerns regarding the mRNA vaccine technology, an issue previously flagged by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a leading public health figure in the nation. “The reality is that mRNA technology remains inadequately tested, and we will not waste taxpayer dollars repeating past errors,” stated HHS Communications Director Andrew Nixon, as reported by New Scientist.

However, mRNA technology is far from novel and has been in development for over 50 years, with various clinical trials confirming its safety. Like all treatments, there can be mild side effects, but these are typical of most medical interventions. In a recent announcement, Moderna indicated its intention to seek alternative funding avenues for the project.

“I firmly believe we shouldn’t dismiss any option, including various vaccine strategies,” asserts Calkdawara.

“Vaccinations are the most effective defense against infectious diseases,” emphasizes Sorrell. “Having them available as a contingency provides a wider range of options.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Washington’s Turmoil Hinders Efforts to Combat Avian Flu

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Interviews with over a dozen scientists and federal officials reveal that the initiative to control bird flu on farms has been hindered by a tumultuous administration transition, which prioritized cost-cutting, reduced federal employment, and limited communication.

On one poultry farm alone, more than 168 million birds were culled to mitigate the outbreak. The virus, first identified in American dairy cows about a year ago, has spread to 17 states and is increasingly prevalent. A flock of 1,000 birds was affected.

In the early months, the Trump administration dismissed a team of scientists crucial for tracking the virus’s spread, canceling significant meetings and limiting data access for federal scientists.

The Department of Health and Human Services has not held a public briefing on bird flu since January and has not responded to inquiries for comments.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suggested letting the virus spread unchecked among poultry to distinguish vaccinated birds, an idea supported by Democratic lawmakers. This opened the survey into the federal response.

The Trump administration also removed funding for the Food and Agriculture Organization’s program, a UN body responsible for monitoring and controlling avian flu in 49 countries.

“We’ve noted considerable challenges,” highlighted Lindsay Mar, a specialist in airborne viruses at Virginia Tech.

“Animals and people provide strong warning signs. Yet we merely observe them and fail to act,” she remarked.

Avian influenza has impacted various mammal species, including 150 cats, with at least 70 cases across 26 states resulting in four hospitalizations and one death. Following the winter lull, the spring travel season has reignited the infection rates.

In the past 30 days, the Ministry of Agriculture has reported 47 new infectious cases across three states.

Currently, the H5N1 virus does not seem capable of human-to-human transmission. Nonetheless, a recent mutation appears to be edging closer to that possibility.

This week, an international group of virologists concluded that continuous monitoring of milk from dairy farms, wastewater, and individuals working with infected animals is vital.

Authorities are testing bulk milk to help identify infected herds. However, the agricultural sector’s strategy to counter bird flu is currently focused on lowering egg prices, with little mention of dairy cows.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has proposed enhancements to farm biosecurity to assist farmers in ten states in curbing the virus’s spread on their premises.

“The initial emphasis of these ongoing efforts will be on egg-soaking facilities as part of USDA’s coordinated strategy to tackle egg prices, but we anticipate the inclusion of other poultry and dairy producers as the program expands,”

An early wave of federal layoffs impacted a veterinarian in the avian flu-focused agriculture sector, leading to both terminations and rehiring. Today, many continue to manage government-issued credit cards with restrictions that complicate travel and procurement of necessary supplies without seeking extended credit.

The Agriculture Department defended its policies, stating, “The restrictions on government-issued credit cards will automatically relax once personnel obtain travel approval,” according to a department spokesperson via email.

On April 1, the Trump administration dismissed veterinarians and scientists at the Food and Drug Administration investigating raw pet food contaminated with H5N1, which had adversely affected cats, and was pivotal in assisting veterinarians in developing proposals for vaccines and treatment of infected animals.

According to an anonymous official fearing retaliation, the CDC has begun withholding genetic analyses of virus samples collected from patients. Even some internal teams can no longer access this information.

Typically, federal agencies release data 242 days post-collection, as revealed by a recent analysis. Ideally, this process should only take a few weeks, according to scientists. Such delays complicate the tracking of the virus’s spread and accurate assessment of risks to the public.

Significant reports in the agency’s publications, such as weekly morbidity and mortality records, have been affected, mentioned the former anonymous official.

In February, instead of the scheduled reports on avian flu infections in domestic cats, agency scientists were instructed to prioritize a paper on the impact of LA wildfires on air quality.

While research on avian flu emerged weeks later, agency staff expressed their discontent with the delayed directives from superiors.

The Biden administration has been holding regular inter-departmental calls on avian flu, involving numerous external experts and state health officials, to share the latest findings. These discussions have been diminished, much like the CDC’s guidance on monitoring.

All communication from the CDC requires clearance from federal health officials in Washington. The agency has not held an avian flu press conference since January.

“There have been numerous health challenges,” remarked Dr. Adam Rowling, a virologist and infectious disease specialist at the University of Michigan.

The nation retains stockpiles containing millions of doses of human vaccines against avian influenza. However, amid budget cuts, agencies responsible for these stockpiles and rapid emergency distribution have shifted under the CDC.

Dawn O’Connell, who leads the administration for strategic preparation and response, an agency that has maintained its stockpile under the Biden administration, noted that this shift would “add a layer of bureaucracy instead of removing it.”

In interviews, several employees from the CDC and agricultural sector expressed low morale, worsened by successive layoffs. During a City Hall gathering on April 16, around a quarter of the veterinarians present indicated they would consider signing onto a deferred resignation program that offers full pay and benefits until September 30th.

Over the past year, it has been challenging to monitor cows infected with H5N1. They exhibited fever and produced thick yellow milk, with some cows suffering voluntary abortions.

However, reinfections have been found in cows, with second-round symptoms being subtle, complicating the identification of infected cows and protecting those who interact with them. Currently, rapid testing for the virus in cattle and humans is unavailable.

Reinfection indicates that the virus may permanently colonize dairy cows. Meanwhile, the virus continues to circulate among wild birds, evolving approximately twice as fast in birds as in cows.

A new variant, known as D1.1, which is believed to cause more severe illness, emerged in September and quickly became the dominant strain. The government’s response has not matched this rapid evolution.

In Nevada, milk samples collected on January 6th and 7th tested positive for avian influenza by January 10th. Ideally, the 12 farms contributing these samples would have been quarantined while confirming results.

Instead, further samples were gathered on January 17th, with results confirmed a week later.

The Agriculture Department stated that delays in test results would not impede the outbreak response. “It is crucial to note that response activities operate independently of the sequence of the results and occur as needed,” the department claimed.

Michael Warby, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Arizona, expressed skepticism, noting, “This appears to be a situation where the barn door is closed after the cows have escaped.”

He suggested that it’s still feasible to eradicate the virus on American farms if the Agriculture Bureau enhances containment measures.

For instance, a rapid testing method that detects H5N1 in bulk milk could provide officials with more time to eliminate outbreaks, compared to tests that yield results after several weeks.

“We believe this is a goal to pursue unless it proves futile,” Dr. Warby commented regarding the virus’s expulsion.

At present, removing the virus from farms is not straightforward.

For example, if an infected duck flies over a farm and defecates, an outbreak could commence among millions of birds. Farmers may inadvertently transport remains into chicken coops, and infected rodents can enter through small openings.

Chickens are densely packed and have weak immune systems; a single sneeze can quickly infect hundreds or even thousands.

Over the past two years, the Agriculture Department has collaborated with egg producers in four states: Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, and North Dakota.

Federal officials have assisted in identifying and removing surrounding wildlife, including mice, and have eliminated potential virus entry points that farmers might overlook. Notably, only two out of 108 facilities involved in the pilot program reported subsequent virus outbreaks.

This project is slated to expand this year to ten states, including California, Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, with plans to reach all 50 states by 2027. Agricultural experts aim to help farmers identify even the smallest vulnerabilities against avian flu.

While this proposal has garnered praise from scientists, some experts, including veterinarians in agriculture, are uncertain about its implementation.

Department staff have been striving to combat bird flu since early 2022. There is already an insufficient workforce to detect facility weaknesses necessary for farm operation and readiness for reopening.

“We’ve been working continuously for three years, leading to increasing fatigue among staff,” noted a veterinarian who requested anonymity without permission to engage with the media.

Given the current situation on farms, even stringent measures may not suffice to bar the virus, remarked Andrew Decoriolis, executive director of Advocacy Group Farm Fight.

“The outbreak is likely to persist until the industry undergoes significant transformation,” he remarked.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Video Exposes Lax Biosecurity in New York Poultry Market During Avian Flu Outbreak

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Concerns are escalating among actors and experts after video evidence obtained by BBC Science Focus revealed that a New York City poultry market is neglecting essential safety measures to protect both staff and the public amid rising bird flu cases in the state.

The footage showcases employees at various locations in Queens handling birds without the minimal recommended personal protective equipment (PPE).

This revelation comes shortly after city officials ordered a temporary closure of over 80 poultry markets following the identification of avian flu cases in February.

Despite efforts by the New York State Department of Agricultural Markets to test birds for the virus before entering the live markets, conditions have raised alarms among advocates, as not adhering to biosecurity protocols could lead to further spread.

Taken from a video at the entrance to the live poultry market in Queens, New York, on April 13, 2025, this shows workers without masks and insufficient PPE. They are seen wearing only one glove, and possibly touching their faces with uncovered hands. – Crystal Heath

Doctor Crystal Heath, the veterinarian who filmed the footage, indicated that “These live poultry markets do not adhere to basic biosecurity protocols.” He emphasized the role of official negligence in allowing these sites to compromise public health.

Edita Birnkrant, executive director of Animal Rights New Yorker, a nonprofit organization, has inspected numerous markets, declaring that conditions within them pose risks to both workers and customers.

“Anyone walking by could be exposed to pathogens,” she noted in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

Both Heath and Birnkrant have urged public health officials to take decisive actions to mitigate the risk of avian flu in New York’s poultry markets, warning that locations in densely populated areas pose significant public health threats.

Heath explained that these markets bring together multiple bird species, creating an optimal setting for the virus to interact with other strains of influenza, potentially leading to new variants that could spread between humans.

Footage captured by Heath highlights clear violations of biosecurity recommendations. The New York Ministry of Agriculture Markets indicated to BBC Science Focus on April 15 that best practices for live poultry markets should include:

  • Discouraging unnecessary visitors
  • Utilizing biosecurity signs to prevent unauthorized entry
  • Ensuring footwear is covered and disinfected for visitors
  • Screening visitors for recent bird contact
  • Reporting any abnormal, sick, or deceased birds to authorities.
Captured from a video taken outside another live poultry market in Queens, New York, on April 13, 2025, this shows individuals leaving the market without any protective gear. The facility’s doors are wide open, allowing public access. – Crystal Heath

In response to inquiries from BBC Science Focus, New York State Health Department Director Dr. James MacDonald stated there is “no immediate threat to public health” and that no confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) have been reported among humans in New York. However, he advised those regularly in contact with livestock and wild birds to exercise caution by wearing PPE.

Despite these warnings, the Health Department has confirmed that there are currently no plans to mandate PPE use in New York’s live poultry markets.

While no human cases have been documented in New York thus far, over 70 infections have occurred nationwide, with some leading to fatalities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that there is no confirmed human-to-human transmission, asserting that the general public remains at low risk.

Nonetheless, experts caution that each time a virus successfully infects a person, it presents potential for evolution. Research indicates that single mutations in the H5N1 strain responsible for ongoing outbreaks could facilitate easier human transmission.

Professor Jarra Jagne, a poultry expert and veterinarian affiliated with the US Department of Agriculture’s Livebird Market Working Group, stated that while PPE usage is highly encouraged, there are currently no legal mandates for its use.

This was taken from a video captured at the third live poultry market in Queens, New York, on April 13, 2025, showing individuals without masks or other PPE. The entrance to this market was also open to the public. – Crystal Heath

“We advise that these viruses can infect humans, and we recommend wearing masks and changing clothes when visiting the market,” she stated. “Ultimately, it’s a personal choice.”

Jagne emphasized the concern of irregular PPE use, but noted that New York’s live bird markets are better regulated than they were in the past. Regulations now dictate bird sourcing, handling, and testing procedures.

“Conditions used to be dire,” she remarked. “New York has more markets than any other state, and we had to lead the charge. For many years, flu cases in these markets have been minimal.”

Currently, flocks must be tested 72 hours prior to their market entry, with additional testing conducted upon arrival. However, Jagne pointed out that even rigorous testing cannot eliminate the wide array of risks, particularly as wild birds continue to circulate the virus across the nation.

The presence of unprotected customers in these markets poses a significant vulnerability. “Perhaps markets should provide masks at the entrance, similar to what we did during Covid,” Jagne suggested.

The poultry market featured in Heath’s video has not responded to requests for comment from BBC Science Focus.

About our experts

Crystal Heath: A veterinarian specializing in shelter medicine and high-quality castration neutrality (HQHVSN), and co-founder of Our Honor, a nonprofit organization focused on animal rights.

Edita Birnkrant: Executive director of Animal Rights New Yorker, a nonprofit established in 2008 with a mission to advocate for animal rights, including saving NYC carriage horses and promoting the Animal Rights Act.

James MacDonald MD, MPH: A health committee member of the New York State Department of Health. Before joining the department in July 2022, MacDonald worked with the Rhode Island Department of Health since 2012.

Jarra Jagne: A Practical Professor in the Public and Ecosystem Health Department at Cornell University’s Veterinary Medicine Department, with research published in journals like International Journal of Infectious Diseases, Avian Diseases, and Avian Pathology.

Editor’s Notes

This article is based on footage and information gathered during an independent investigation into live poultry market practices. All content is sourced legally and reviewed to adhere to editorial standards. To protect privacy, identifying details have been removed or obscured. The footage was filmed in a public setting; individuals or businesses depicted are not meant to be misrepresented, and every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and fairness.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

FDA Urges Pet Food Companies to Review Safety Plans in Light of Bird Flu Outbreak

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The number of cats increasing that have died or become ill after consuming raw pet food and raw milk contaminated with the H5n1 virus has prompted health authorities to take special precautionary measures to protect pet food companies from bird flu. They are advising pet food makers to follow food safety plans such as sourcing ingredients from healthy flocks and applying heat treatments to inactivate viruses, as suggested in recent guidance from the Food and Drug Administration.

Since the H5n1 virus started spreading in 2022, there have been bird outbreaks under all conditions. Cats appear to be particularly susceptible to the H5N1 virus, with many household cats and wild cats becoming infected since its emergence in 2022. Some farm cats have fallen ill after consuming raw milk, while others have died after consuming contaminated raw pet food.

Despite the FDA guidance, some experts like Dr. Jane Cycks from the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine have raised concerns about the lack of detailed instructions on guaranteeing the absence of H5N1 in food. The FDA has advised pet owners to cook raw pet food to eliminate risks and follow USDA guidelines for safe food handling.

In response to the situation, some raw pet food companies have implemented safety measures such as sourcing quality ingredients and using processes like high-pressure pasteurization. However, experts emphasize that cooking is the only certain way to eliminate the risk of H5N1 in pet food.

Overall, both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Veterinary Medical Association recommend against feeding companion animals raw or undercooked meat due to the potential risks associated with pathogens like H5N1.

While high-pressure pasteurization is advertised as a method to kill pathogens, experts caution that cooking to internal temperature is the most reliable way to ensure food safety. Consumers are advised to cook raw pet food thoroughly before feeding it to their pets to reduce the risk of transmission of bird flu.

For those who prefer raw pet food brands, experts suggest cooking the food before feeding it to ensure the safety of pets.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Bird flu warning signs are worsening

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overview

  • This year, the bird flu outbreak has led to several alarming developments, with at least 64 human infections.
  • Experts outlined several indicators that the spread of the virus is moving in the wrong direction.
  • These include the recent detection of the virus in wastewater and signs of dangerous mutations.

The lingering threat of bird flu appears to be escalating.

This year has witnessed a series of troubling events related to the virus spread. Since April, at least 64 individuals have tested positive for the virus, marking the first U.S. case in 2022 apart from one. Dairy herds in 16 states were affected this year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the nation’s first severe case of avian influenza in a critically ill patient in Louisiana. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency this week due to the growing outbreak in cattle and poultry.

“The warning signs are transitioning from green to yellow,” stated Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco specializing in infectious diseases. “Numerous indications are pointing in an unfavorable direction.”

While no human-to-human transmission of avian influenza has been recorded, the CDC asserts that the immediate public health risk remains low. However, concerns are escalating based on four key indicators.

For instance, the avian influenza virus known as H5N1 is rapidly spreading among animals, including cattle, that frequently interact with humans. Moreover, detections in wastewater suggest that the virus has not only impacted livestock but also various other areas.

Additionally, there are instances of human cases where the source of infection is unidentified, along with studies on the virus’s evolution indicating that it has adapted to human receptors required for inter-human transmission. Fewer mutations have been observed.

Experts warn that when considering these indicators together, the virus is on track to potentially become the next pandemic.

“We are currently in a very precarious situation,” remarked Scott Hensley, a microbiology professor at the University of Pennsylvania.

Extensive circulation creates new pathways to humans

Since the onset of the avian influenza outbreak in 2022, the virus has spread to wild birds, domestic poultry, and wild mammals like sea lions, foxes, and black bears. Over 125 million poultry have perished from infectious diseases or been culled in the United States, as per the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Approximately 125 million poultry have died from the virus or been culled since 2022.Ulises Riuz/AFP from Getty Images File

In March, an unexpected occurrence unfolded when dairy cows fell ill, experienced reduced feed intake, and produced discolored milk.

Research indicates that the virus likely spread swiftly and effectively among cows through raw milk, as infected cows excreted significant virus amounts from their mammary glands. Raccoons and domestic cats are also susceptible if they consume raw milk.

The more animals infected, the higher the risk of transmission to humans who come in contact with them.

“The more individuals infected, the higher the likelihood of variant emergence,” mentioned Jennifer Nuzzo, an epidemiology professor and head of the Pandemic Center at Brown University’s School of Public Health. “I don’t want to give the virus the opportunity to trigger a pandemic.”

Prior to this year, influenza prevention efforts did not focus on cows.

“We hadn’t considered dairy cows to be influenza hosts, at least not significant ones,” mentioned Andrew Bowman, a veterinary preventive medicine professor at Ohio State University in an interview with NBC News this past summer.

However, the virus has been detected in at least 865 herds in 16 states and in raw (unpasteurized) milk sold in California. For domestic cats that consume raw milk.

A lab manager prepares milk samples for testing at Cornell University’s Animal Health Diagnostic Center on Dec. 10.Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

“Currently, raw milk and related products pose a direct risk to communities and consumers,” stated Chin-Hong. “A year ago, or even just months ago, the risk was significantly lower.”

Cases with unknown exposure sources

Most human H5N1 infections occur among poultry and dairy farm workers. However, in some mysterious instances, the source of infection remains unidentified.

One such case was reported in Hospital in Missouri in August, with subsequent recovery. Another instance involved children in California who tested positive in November.

Furthermore, Delaware health authorities reported a case of H5N1 infection this week in an individual with no known exposure to poultry or cattle. Although CDC testing did not confirm avian influenza as the virus, the case is considered “probable.”

In British Columbia, Canada, a teenager was hospitalized in early November after contracting H5N1 despite no apparent contact with farm animals or wildlife. The genetic makeup of the virus suggested similarity to strains found in waterfowl and poultry.

Such unexplained cases are causing concern among experts.

“This implies that the virus has a wider reach, and more individuals may have encountered it than previously thought,” mentioned Nuzzo.

Increased concentration of avian influenza in wastewater

Scientists are actively monitoring wastewater for virus fragments to better comprehend the geographical spread of the avian influenza epidemic.

Amy Lockwood, CDC’s director of public health partnerships and Verily, a company offering CDC wastewater testing services, stated that in recent months, “detections are increasing in frequency across a broader geographic spectrum.” A program known as Wastewater SCAN is in place.

Earlier in the month, approximately 19% of facilities monitored within the CDC’s National Wastewater Surveillance System across at least 10 states reported positive detections.

It is uncertain whether the detected virus fragments originated from animals or humans. For instance, some may stem from wild bird droppings entering storm drains.

“At this stage, we do not believe these signify human-to-human transmission, but there are numerous H5 viruses present,” revealed Peggy, CDC’s Director of Infectious Disease Control and Innovation.

Lockwood and Peggy mentioned that wastewater detections are concentrated near dairy processing facilities and poultry farms. However, puzzling hotspots have emerged in regions devoid of such agricultural operations in recent months.

“We are observing infections in areas where we do not automatically identify the source,” Lockwood noted, adding, “It’s a game of large numbers.”

Another mutation?

Until recently, virologists believed that multiple mutations were necessary for H5N1 to transition easily among humans.

However, a study published in Science magazine this month revealed that a cattle-circulating strain of the virus could bind to human receptors following a single mutation (Note: The study focuses solely on viral proteins, not the entire infectious virus).

Fatina Albies, a researcher in Sabeti's lab at the Broad Institute, tests milk samples for avian influenza in Boston.Boston Globe/Getty Images

“We are not implying that a pandemic is more imminent due to this finding. We simply want to highlight that the risk has elevated as a result,” explained Jim Paulson, co-author of the study and the director of molecular medicine at Scripps Research.

Separately, scientists have detected concerning elements in another virus variant found in a Canadian teen who fell severely ill in recent months. Virus samples indicated mutations that could enhance human-to-human transmissibility.

A CDC spokesperson stated that these mutations were unlikely present in the virus when the boy was infected.

“These mixed changes in the virus probably occurred following prolonged infection in the patient,” the spokesperson explained.

The strain of the virus in the first severe bird flu case in the U.S., announced on Wednesday, matched the one that infected the Canadian teenager.

Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, head of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, revealed that the CDC is analyzing patient samples to identify potential concerning variants.

Meanwhile, Hensley expressed concerns that the flu season could expedite virus evolution. If an individual is co-infected with seasonal influenza and avian influenza, genetic code segments can be exchanged between the two.

“Mutations are unnecessary; it’s simply a genetic code exchange,” Hensley asserted, emphasizing the importance of farmworkers receiving flu shots to reduce such opportunities.

Upcoming trials and vaccines

Experts highlighted various measures that can be taken to track bird flu spread more effectively and prepare for a possible pandemic, some of which are already in progress.

The USDA extended mass milk testing to a total of 13 states on Tuesday, accounting for approximately 50% of the national supply.

Nuzzo emphasized that efforts need to be intensified swiftly.

“We have delayed comprehensive bulk milk testing for too long, as it is a common method for detecting outbreaks on farms,” she stated.

Simultaneously, Andrew Trister, Verily’s chief medical and scientific officer, mentioned that the company is enhancing wastewater analysis to identify concerning mutations.

USDA additionally approved field trials to administer H5N1 vaccine to cattle. Hensley’s lab conducted tests on a new mRNA vaccine in calves.

H5N1 bird flu poses a greater pandemic risk than anticipated

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Highly contagious avian influenza has been circulating around the world since 2020.

Ulises Ruiz/AFP via Getty Images

The H5N1 avian influenza virus that is circulating around the world is already more contagious than earlier strains. In addition, the single mutation allows it to infect cells lining the nose and throat, making it more likely to be transmitted through the air.

This change alone is not enough for the virus to cause a pandemic. But if a virus with this mutation swapped genes with a human influenza virus, it could acquire pandemic potential almost immediately.

“The more people are infected, the more likely this is to happen,” he says. Ian Wilson At the Scripps Research Institute in California. Despite this, Wilson believes the risk remains low.

A particularly virulent strain of avian influenza, H5N1, originated in the 1990s, probably in domestic birds in China, and spread around the world. Around 2020, a new variant of the virus emerged and spread even more widely, reaching as far as the Americas and Antarctica. In the United States, poultry is infected in large numbers, dairy cattle are also infected, and occasionally humans are infected.

team led by Debbie Van Riel Researchers at Erasmus University Medical Center in the Netherlands infected cells in human noses and throats with the 2005 and 2022 H5N1 variants. They showed for the first time that the 2022 mutant is better at binding to these cells and replicating within them. . “Bad news,” van Riel says.

“I don’t think it’s extremely likely that the virus will become a pandemic,” she says. However, the fact that this virus is better at infecting humans gives it more opportunity to acquire further mutations, increasing the likelihood of a pandemic.

Meanwhile, Wilson and his colleagues have been studying the key hemagglutinin protein of the influenza virus. This protein binds to receptors on the outside of cells and determines which cells the virus can infect. Because it sticks out from the virus, it is also the main target of the immune system.

Currently, H5N1 hemagglutinin primarily binds to receptors located deep in the lungs in humans. This means that although it can cause serious illness, it is unlikely to leave the body and infect others. For that to happen, the virus needs to infect the cells inside your nose and throat. This means that coughing and sneezing can expel the virus and infect others.

Van Riel's research suggests that the virus can do this to some extent, but it is not clear whether the virus binds to the main receptors on these cells. It was thought that multiple mutations were required for H5N1 to bind strongly to these receptors, but Wilson's team now shows that a single mutation is sufficient for the current H5N1 variants. Showed.

Team members say this change alone won’t prevent the virus from causing a pandemic. Jim Paulsonalso at the Scripps Research Institute. “We think this property is necessary, but importantly not sufficient, for pandemic virus transmission,” he says.

Paulson said other changes are also necessary for the virus to begin replicating and spreading from person to person, but they are not well understood. “There's a lot of biology we don’t know,” he says.

However, if H5N1 viruses that infect humans acquire receptor switching mutations, they may evolve these other changes as well.

Furthermore, it is possible, in theory, to acquire all the necessary abilities at once by exchanging genes with a human virus that infects the same individual. Several previous influenza pandemics have been caused by genetic swapping between animal and human influenza viruses, Paulson said.

“This is very worrying,” he says alice katsurakis from the University of Oxford was not involved in either study. “Every time it spreads to humans, it gives the virus a roll of the dice.”

What is the mortality rate of the H5N1 pandemic?

If H5N1 avian influenza begins to spread from person to person, the big question is how deadly it will be. Half of the people confirmed to have contracted the virus since 2003 have died. However, the actual infection fatality rate is likely to be even lower, as many cases likely go undetected and mild cases are likely to be missed.

Of the roughly 60 people infected in the U.S. since the dairy outbreak began, nearly all have had only mild symptoms. why not understoodbut one explanation is that many were infected through the eyes. “It’s known to have much more benign results,” Katzorakis says.

It is also thought to become less dangerous when the virus switches from binding to receptors deep in the lungs to binding to receptors in the upper airways. But puzzling aspects of the U.S. cases left Paulson unsure whether this also applied to H5N1. “To be honest, I don’t know what to think right now,” he says.

“I don’t think there’s any reason to be satisfied with this and expect that even if this virus were to be easily transmitted from person to person, it would be ‘mild,'” Katzourakis said.

Because Wilson’s team studied the hemagglutinin protein alone, there was no chance that the mutated protein could leak into the lab. “No viruses were used here at all,” he says.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Antibodies for avian flu discovered in dairy farm workers in Michigan and Colorado

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Farm workers exposed to infected dairy cows found to have avian influenza antibodies

Helen King/Getty Images

There may be more human cases of avian influenza in the United States than previously thought. Health officials in the two states conducted blood tests on workers at dairy farms known to have received infected cattle and found that about 7% of them had antibodies to the disease. This included people who had never experienced any flu symptoms.

Since March, an avian influenza virus known as H5N1 has been circulating among dairy cows across the United States. so far, 446 cows People have tested positive for the virus in 15 states in the United States. From April, 44 people In the United States, people have tested positive for H5, the influenza subtype that includes H5N1. All but one of these cases occurred in poultry or dairy farm workers infected with H5N1.

To better understand how many farmworkers may have been infected with the virus. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) collaborates with state health departments Blood samples were taken from 115 people working on dairy farms raising H5N1-infected cows in Colorado and Michigan. All samples were taken between 15 and 19 days after a cow on the farm tested positive for the virus.

Nirav Shah The CDC and his colleagues then removed seasonal influenza antibodies from the samples before testing them for the presence of H5N1 antibodies. H5N1 antibodies were detected in eight of the samples, or about 7%, suggesting that eight of the workers may have been unknowingly infected with the virus. Furthermore, four of the employees did not remember having symptoms.

“This is very important because by this point, [H5N1] “Testing is primarily focused on symptomatic workers.” Megan Davis at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland. “If workers are unaware that they are infected, they may inadvertently expose others in the community to infection.”

H5N1 is poorly adapted to infecting humans and is not known to be transmitted between humans. Still, more than that, 900 people worldwide People have been reported to have been infected with the virus since 2003, and about half of them have died from the virus. Each of these infections gives the virus a chance to mutate, potentially making it more dangerous to people.

“Those of us in public health need to cast a wider net in who we provide testing to,” Shah said at a press conference today. “Going forward, CDC plans to expand testing recommendations to include infected workers.” [to H5N1] And there are no symptoms. ”

The agency also recommends providing antiviral drugs to asymptomatic workers who are at high risk of infection, such as dairy farm workers who may get raw milk on their faces. That way, even if you do get infected with the virus, the amount of virus circulating in your body will be reduced and the risk of spreading the virus to others will be lower. “The less room we give this virus to spread, the less chance it has of changing,” Shah said.

The data also highlights that many H5N1 infections remain undetected, a concern public health officials have long suspected to be true. But until more data is available, “we can't estimate how many unconfirmed cases there are,” Shah said.

The CDC is currently analyzing an additional 150 blood samples taken from veterinarians who work with cattle. Once these results are available, Shah said it should give a clearer picture of how many cases are slipping through the cracks.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Bird flu infecting cows and their milk – Are humans at risk next?

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A strain of avian influenza, known as H5N1 or highly pathogenic avian influenza, has sparked concerns in cattle herds across the United States in recent weeks. This development has raised significant alarm among health experts. The Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO) warned of the high mortality rate associated with the virus in humans.

As of now, the virus has affected more than 20 clusters in eight states of the U.S since a surge was initially reported last month.

The states that have been impacted so far include Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and South Dakota.

Moreover, on April 1st, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the virus had spread further in Texas and had infected individuals who were exposed to dairy cows.

Experts are emphasizing the need for extreme vigilance, investigation, and situational assessment due to the rapidly changing individual risk scenarios.

Infection of cattle is unprecedented.

This virus is not new – H5N1 was initially detected in 1996 in waterfowl in southern China. A new version of the H5N1 virus became widespread in 2021 and has continued to infect both wild and domestic bird populations globally.

Spread to other animals has occurred occasionally as the virus has crossed into various mammalian populations, including foxes, seals, sea lions, and humans, according to the CDC.

While the spread to mammals is a concern and can be fatal, past cases have shown that avian influenza typically stops spreading when it reaches mammalian populations, particularly humans.

However, in October 2022, a significant shift occurred when the virus spread from mink to mink at a mink farm in Spain, deviating from the usual transmission from birds to mammals. The USDA has confirmed that cows have been infected for the first time, and cow-to-cow transmission has contributed to the recent spread of avian influenza in dairy farms.

There is still uncertainty about how the disease spreads through cattle populations, with reports suggesting that the virus may be transmitted through milk due to high concentrations of the virus being shed in milk.

Is it safe to drink milk?

Most dairy products are pasteurized, which effectively eliminates the virus, making milk consumption safe for the majority of individuals. Drinking unpasteurized milk poses some risk, but experts suggest that even unpasteurized milk may be safe if not consumed immediately after milking.

Experts recommend avoiding unpasteurized milk after high concentrations of the avian influenza virus are detected. – Image credit: Getty

The presence of the virus in milk raises questions about its transmission and impact on human health, as the virus is typically a respiratory disease.

How worried should I be?

The situation is under close monitoring by authorities, with several states implementing restrictions on dairy cow imports from affected regions. Scientists are analyzing virus sequences to identify genetic changes that could impact transmission and treatment effectiveness.

Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of biosecurity measures on farms in controlling the spread of the virus. Experts emphasize the need for increased vigilance and monitoring to prevent further transmission.

Could H5N1 cause the next pandemic?

While there is uncertainty about the future, a widespread pandemic remains unlikely at this point. Authorities are prepared with stockpiles of vaccines and antiviral drugs effective against potential influenza strains.

There are two existing vaccine candidates against H5N1 available to manufacturers, along with several FDA-approved antiviral drugs. The focus remains on combating bird flu and preparing for any potential future outbreaks.

Experts continue to monitor the situation closely and emphasize the importance of staying informed and prepared for any developments.

About our experts

Jeremy Rothman is an Honorary Senior Lecturer in Virology at the University of Kent. His research focuses on infectious diseases’ pathogenesis and has been published in various scientific journals.

Matthew Hayek is an assistant professor at New York University, specializing in the impact of food production on climate change, ecological processes, and the spread of zoonotic diseases.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Important facts about bird flu found in U.S. dairy cows

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dairy farm cows

GH Photo/Alamy

Dairy cows in several US states have reportedly contracted bird flu. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The virus has killed millions of birds around the world, but this is the first time it has been detected in cattle.

How many cows are affected by avian influenza?

As of March 25, milk samples from two dairy farms in Kansas and one in Texas tested positive for the avian influenza subtype called H5N1. new york times. This strain is highly lethal to birds. A cow throat swab taken from a dairy farm in Texas also tested positive. So far, no cows have died from the virus.

On March 22, U.S. authorities announced a diagnosis of avian influenza in bovines after some dairy cows at farms in Texas, Kansas, and New Mexico became ill and there were reports of dead wild birds on farm grounds. The inspection has started.

About 10% of the milking cows on the affected farms appear to be sick, most of them elderly. It is unclear whether avian influenza is the cause of all animal illness. U.S. authorities are moving quickly to conduct additional testing.

How did the cow become infected with the virus?

The Department of Agriculture announced that the cows appear to have contracted the virus from infected wild birds. However, it is unclear exactly how the virus was transmitted between species.

Most mammals that contract bird flu are carnivores, such as foxes and seals, who most likely contracted the virus by eating dead or infected birds.Because cows don’t eat birds, it’s difficult to explain the source of infection. Richard Webby at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tennessee. Feces and saliva from wild birds may have contaminated the cows’ water and feed.

“The biggest question that I don’t fully understand is how do you account for transmission across the state with such geographic spread,” Webby said.

The worst-case scenario is that the virus spreads among cattle, but that’s probably unlikely, he said. This is because there is still no evidence that avian influenza can be transmitted between mammals.

Do sick cows increase the risk of avian influenza spreading to humans?

The risk of contracting bird flu remains low for most people. Initial testing of samples taken from infected cows has found no genetic changes that would suggest the virus is more transmissible to humans.

But each time a mammal gets avian influenza, Webby says, it gives the virus a chance to acquire the mutations it needs to spread between mammals. “But to put this into perspective, we still need some answers. Above all, how many cows are showing evidence of being infected with the virus?” If there are very few, the virus is likely to become a dead end again, as it did in foxes, bears, and other previously infected animals.

Is milk safe to drink?

Yes, milk is still safe to drink. The USDA already requires dairy farms to send only milk from healthy cows for processing. Milk from infected cows is also being discarded and kept out of the food supply.

Even if contaminated milk enters the supply chain, pasteurization kills bacteria and viruses, including influenza.

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Source: www.newscientist.com