California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in response to the rapid spread of bird flu, which has infected over 650 dairy farms and 61 people across the US. The H5N1 virus, first detected in August, has caused significant economic losses for California’s dairy industry, with approximately $20 billion in annual milk production.
The emergency declaration allows the state to expedite resources and funding to combat the outbreak, which has also affected livestock workers and farmworkers. While most people infected with bird flu have had mild symptoms, officials are concerned about the potential for the virus to mix with seasonal flu, making it more transmissible or severe.
Experts say that the rapid spread of the virus suggests multiple routes of transmission, including wildlife such as rodents or birds living on farms, and flying insects. The US Department of Agriculture has started bulk testing of milk supplies to track the virus and is conducting safety trials for vaccines in cows.
The lack of an effective vaccine for humans and animals is a major concern, with researchers urging the development of a “Warp Speed” approach similar to that used during the COVID-19 pandemic. The federal government has stockpiled 10 million doses of vaccine, but it remains early days for vaccine development.
With the outbreak showing no signs of slowing down, experts warn that drastic measures must be taken to prevent further transmission and protect public health.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2024/12/18/bird-flu-cows-dairy-person-infected/76989489007