New Bird Flu Strain Detected in U.S. Dairy Cows, Raising Concerns
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the detection of a new strain of bird flu, identified as D1.1, in dairy cattle in Nevada. This strain, found in milk during an investigation last December, differs from the version of bird flu that has been spreading in the U.S. since last year.
Experts note that the transmission of bird flu from birds to cattle is extremely rare. However, different strains of the H5N1 virus have previously jumped from wild birds to cattle twice before. In addition to the D1.1 strain, the B3.13 strain of H5N1 was also detected in cattle in March 2023, infecting over 950 cows across 16 states.
Richard Webby, an influenza expert at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, expressed surprise at this unusual cross-species transmission, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring.
First U.S. Fatality from H5N1 Reported
Last month, the U.S. reported its first human fatality linked to H5N1, following exposure to infected poultry. This alarming development has heightened concerns among health officials. Scientists studying the virus have identified rapid mutations, with at least nine mutations detected in one strain (rHPhTX), making the virus highly infectious. Some mutations may also increase the virus’s ability to replicate in the brain, posing additional risks.
Growing Fears of a Public Health Threat
Could bird flu become a major global health crisis? Experts believe that close monitoring of the virus is essential. While the full impact of these mutations is still being studied, recent cases suggest that the virus is spreading more easily and may become increasingly infectious.
In recent months, traces of the bird flu virus have been detected in various food and beverage sources, including raw milk. This has raised significant concerns among health professionals. Dr. Megan Rainey, Dean of the Yale School of Public Health, has urged for heightened caution and deeper discussions about the virus’s potential threat.
With the rapid evolution of bird flu strains and their unexpected transmission to new hosts, experts stress the importance of surveillance, prevention, and preparedness to mitigate potential health risks.
