Approximately 70 Americans in Colorado are currently under monitoring for bird flu after potential exposure to the virus, which has recently caused an outbreak in dairy herds. Workers on a farm in the northeastern part of the state will be tested for the H5N1 virus if they show any symptoms.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expressed concerns about the possibility of more cases arising, especially after only one person in Texas has tested positive for the virus so far. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is now preparing for a potential bird flu pandemic in humans, with a one in four potential mortality rate.
Dr. Robert Califf, the FDA’s chief commissioner, has stressed the importance of being prepared for the virus potentially jumping from animals to humans. However, there is a concern that financial losses may be causing reluctance from states and farms to fully cooperate with the CDC.
The virus has been detected in dairy herds in multiple states, including Colorado, with fragments of the virus also found in products such as milk, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Despite this, the FDA reassures that these products are still safe to consume.
Only two humans in the US have tested positive for bird flu after close contact with infected animals. The CDC is reiterating its warning about the potential for a bird flu pandemic, as the virus continues to acquire new mutations that could make it resistant to antivirals.
As the situation develops, health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and encourage precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Stay updated with Jala News for the latest developments on this ongoing situation.
“Prone to fits of apathy. Devoted music geek. Troublemaker. Typical analyst. Alcohol practitioner. Food junkie. Passionate tv fan. Web expert.”