Bird Flu Outbreak: Deadly H5N1 Strain Impacts US

Widespread Spread in Poultry and Concerns for Humans

The highly infectious avian influenza virus H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, is currently causing significant outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows across the United States. The virus, which has the potential to be lethal, has already resulted in several cases of H5N1 in US domesticated birds.

Low Pathogenic Variant and Concerns for Humans

While low pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 (LPAI H5N1) is commonly found in wild birds and does not typically cause severe disease, the concern lies in the highly virulent strain, Influenza A virus subtype H5N1 (AH5N1). This strain has the potential to devastate domesticated poultry stocks and could pose a serious threat to human health.

Impact on Domesticated Poultry

The H5N1 outbreak has had a devastating impact on the poultry industry in the United States. Millions of birds have been culled or died from the disease, leading to significant economic losses. The virus has also spread to dairy cows, raising concerns about the potential impact on the dairy industry.