The CDC recently reported the first severe human case of bird flu in the U.S., raising concerns about possible mutations. The patient, an elderly person with underlying health conditions in Louisiana, contracted the H5N1 strain after coming into contact with sick or dead birds. Genetic analysis showed mutations in the virus, which may make it more capable of infecting humans.
So far, 66 human cases have been confirmed across the U.S., but the actual number may be higher. Though most cases have been mild, this severe instance has intensified fears of a potential pandemic. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission yet, according to the CDC.
The bird flu’s economic impact is already being felt, particularly in the egg industry. The virus has caused egg prices to spike, with the cost of a dozen Grade A large eggs hitting $3.65 in November 2024, compared to $2.50 earlier in the year. This price hike adds to the financial strain amid ongoing inflation.
The virus has also affected pets, with at least three house cat deaths linked to bird flu in California and Oregon. Experts urge pet owners to be cautious with raw food and limit pets’ exposure to wildlife to reduce the risk of infection.
In response, California declared a state of emergency, focusing on containment efforts. The CDC continues to monitor the outbreak closely and is conducting further genetic analysis to understand the potential impact of the mutations.
🚨 The CDC reports the first Bird Flu case with mutations and warns we could be facing “another pandemic.”
pic.twitter.com/eP01K0cDFK— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) December 28, 2024
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/m1218-h5n1-flu.html
https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/bird-flu-mutation-risk-of-new-pandemic-explained/ar-AA1wAYrP
1 view