Bird flu has been wreaking havoc globally, but its impact goes far beyond just egg prices and poultry populations. The Avian flu virus, which originated in waterfowl, can spread to any animal, including humans, with devastating effects.
According to experts, the current bird flu pandemic is a panzootic, affecting animals across every continent except Australia, where it has its own deadly strain. The virus has been found in dolphins, seals, and sea lions, with 24,000 sea lions dying in South America last year.
The consequences of this outbreak are alarming, with birds acting strangely before collapsing, and farms resorting to mass culling in humane but often inhumane ways. Experts warn that the amount of mammals infected by bird flu is astronomical, posing a significant risk to human health.
While the risk of transmission from animals to humans is low, experts caution that contact between humans and infected animals could lead to genetic reassortment and mutations, making the virus more contagious among humans.
To protect themselves, people can take simple precautions such as:
* Avoiding contact with sick birds
* Not consuming raw animal products, including unpasteurized milk and meat
* Getting vaccinated against seasonal influenza
It’s essential to note that while bird flu does have pandemic potential, there is no need for panic. Experts emphasize the importance of staying informed and taking steps to minimize risk.
As one expert noted, “We’re not in pandemic territory yet,” but continued monitoring and vigilance are necessary to prevent any potential spread to humans.
Source: https://www.vox.com/explainers/399776/auto-draft