The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed additional H5N1 avian flu cases in poultry from four states, including several in hard-hit Ohio. Outbreaks in Ohio have led to the loss of nearly 6 million birds, with most affected farms being turkey producers. Meanwhile, an outbreak at a layer farm in Arizona has resulted in 316,000 birds lost. Backyard flocks in Nebraska and Florida also reported cases, totaling over 457,250 birds across all states.
In the UK, clade 1b mpox was confirmed in humans recently vaccinated in clades 2 or 3. The outbreaks involved individuals with no prior cases of the disease, highlighting the risk of exposure through Ugandan travelers. The World Health Organization reported continued activity of clade 1b mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with new cases outside the country despite some regions showing stabilization.
CARB-X, a partnership focused on detecting and preventing wildlife diseases, announced a $500,000 award for a novel bacterial pneumonia test using whole blood. This PCR-based method aims to overcome the challenge of obtaining airway samples. Meanwhile, in Minnesota, white-tailed bucks were detected with clade 1b mpox near Greenfield (Hennepin County) and Hawley (Clay County). The DNR will implement a CWD response plan, including testing, zone management, and additional hunting permits.
These developments underscore the importance of robust surveillance systems to combat emerging wildlife diseases.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/avian-influenza-bird-flu/h5n1-avian-flu-strikes-more-poultry-4-states