Over 70 Human Cases Detected; Global Virus Network Calls for Urgent Action
UNITED STATES — The spread of the highly contagious H5N1 bird flu virus across the United States has triggered serious concerns among global health experts, with over 1,000 dairy herds affected since March 2024 and more than 70 human infections, including one fatality, reported.
According to the Global Virus Network (GVN) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus’s growing ability to infect mammals significantly increases the possibility of genetic mutations. These changes could eventually enable the virus to spread more efficiently between humans, potentially setting the stage for a new pandemic.
“Understanding the current landscape of H5N1 infections is critical for effective prevention and response,” said Dr. Sten H. Vermund, Chief Medical Officer at GVN and Dean of USF Health College of Public Health. “The virus’s ability to infect both animals and humans, combined with recent genetic changes, underscores the importance of proactive surveillance and rapid response measures.”
GVN Issues Global Alert
The GVN has issued an urgent call to governments worldwide to implement stronger surveillance systems, enhance testing protocols, and consider rolling out vaccines for both animals and high-risk workers.
Among the key recommendations are:
- Enhanced surveillance across animal and human populations
- Rapid sharing of genomic data to monitor mutations
- Tighter biosecurity controls on farms
- Development and deployment of vaccines and diagnostic tools
- Public education on safe handling of poultry and livestock
Despite the increasing number of human infections, the CDC has stated that the current public health risk remains low. However, they recommend heightened precautions for dairy and poultry workers, who are most likely to be exposed.
“We are monitoring individuals with animal exposures closely and continue to assess the situation carefully,” a CDC spokesperson said.
What Is H5N1?
Avian Influenza A(H5N1) is a severe virus primarily affecting birds but capable of infecting mammals and humans. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), human cases usually occur due to direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. When transmitted to humans, H5N1 can cause life-threatening respiratory illness, with a high mortality rate.
A Call for Global Collaboration
The GVN and CDC emphasized the urgent need for global cooperation between countries, health organizations, and researchers. Swift actions, early detection, and data sharing are seen as essential tools in preventing the virus from escalating into a global health crisis.
“Heightened vigilance, global cooperation, and early detection are absolutely critical in containing further spread,” said Dr. Vermund.
