By Andi Anderson
The H5N1 bird flu is resurging wild birds migrate south for winter, infecting 66 poultry flocks and causing the deaths of over 3.5 million turkeys, chickens, and ducks within a month. Scientists say the virus spreads easily when wild birds mix with commercial or backyard flocks. Central U.S. states are currently most affected, though researchers expect more outbreaks across the country.
“Absolutely we're going to see human infections, just like we did a year ago,” says Seema Lakdawala, a virologist at Emory University. “Nothing has changed substantially to suggest otherwise.”
Despite no human cases reported since early this year, researchers warn that reduced surveillance is limiting visibility into infections. Wendy Puryear of Tufts University says, “We’re not in a great position for monitoring things.” She notes that coordination between influenza researchers and federal agencies has weakened due to staffing cuts and policy changes under the Trump administration.
Dr. Keith Poulsen of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory says reduced communication and staff losses at the USDA have slowed data sharing. “The shutdown just kind of pours gas on a smoldering fire and makes us vulnerable,” he adds.
While bird flu cases in dairy herds remain low, Lakdawala’s research shows that the virus lingers in milking parlors, equipment, and waste streams. Cows shed high levels of virus in milk, making it hard to contain.
“What concerns me is continuing to have the resources to respond to it. We’re holding it together right now,” says Karen Martin, an epidemiologist in Minnesota.
Experts emphasize better testing for farm workers, as studies found 7% of dairy workers were previously infected. Dr. Nirav Shah warns that cutting monitoring programs “is a dangerous game to play when it comes to something like pandemic influenza.”
Photo Credit: istock-peopleImages
Categories: Indiana, Livestock, Poultry