A highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has spread to mammals and infected hundreds of people worldwide. The disease has been detected in various countries, including the US, Europe, and Canada, with sheep being the latest species to be affected.
The UK government announced a first case of bird flu in a sheep at a farm in northern England. Some mammals, such as dairy cows and pigs, are farmed and interact closely with humans, increasing the risk of transmission. Pigs, in particular, pose a concern due to their ability to become co-infected with both bird and human viruses, which could lead to the formation of a new, more contagious virus.
According to data from the European Food Safety Authority and the US Department of Agriculture, hundreds of wild and captive bird species have been infected between 2016 and 2025. The disease has also affected various mammals, including alpacas, badgers, bears, and even ferrets.
As concerns about human transmission grow, health experts warn that a new pandemic could emerge if the virus spreads further. With its increasing spread to mammals, bird flu is becoming an increasingly significant threat to global public health.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/bird-flu-spreads-mammals-fears-human-transmission-2025-03-24