The H5N1 strain of bird flu has been impacting nearly 167 million birds in the US since 2022, with over 70 human infections reported. As migratory birds begin their northward journey, Canadian scientists are ramping up efforts to monitor and curb the virus that could cause a pandemic.
Recent outbreaks of H5N1 have been more frequent than usual, and experts are concerned about how the disease will evolve as it spreads across the US and Canada. Another strain, H7N9, has also been reported in a poultry farm in Mississippi, which is associated with a higher death rate among humans.
The virus can be deadly in humans, with nearly 40% of those infected dying since its detection in 2013. Genetic analysis suggests that the virus has mutated to become more effective at attaching to cells in the upper respiratory tract.
Scientists are working closely with international counterparts to share information and develop strategies for containing the spread of the disease. However, the US withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) and cuts to key agencies like the National Institutes of Health may compromise information-sharing between American scientists and their international colleagues.
Canada is relying on the US to curb the virus effectively, particularly in terms of monitoring bird flyways and keeping a close eye on wild and domestic birds. Provincial health officials are also working closely with counterparts in states like Washington, Oregon, and Alaska to share information and coordinate efforts.
To prepare for the possibility that the virus could become more transmissible among humans, Canadian scientists are increasing their monitoring and vigilance, laboratory testing, and developing antibody tests to monitor human exposure. They are also researching how bird flu is transmitted and developing strategies to contain its spread.
Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/bird-flu-h5n1-migration-1.7486795