Bird Flu Cases Surge: Should You Be Concerned? 

United States: H5N1 avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, continues to spread rapidly among bird populations as it demonstrates the potential for transmission between different species of mammals. 

Since 2022 a total of 147 million birds in the United States have been adversely impacted by the disease. More than 5 million egg-laying chickens have perished from the disease in 2022, and experts found H5N1 in dairy cows and cats along with zoo animals along with some human cases, as reported by HealthDay.

The upcoming section provides essential information about the present situation. Dr. People should understand bird flu fundamentals, according to Dr. David Cennimo, who works as an infectious disease specialist at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Newark campus. 

What exactly is bird flu? 

The influenza virus, known as bird flu, mostly affects birds, but it has the potential to transfer between different animal species. The H5N1 species represents the greatest current health threat. Research shows the virus acts like human flu strains H1N1 and H3N2 yet remains restricted mostly to birds since no spread between humans has ever been proved. 

How do people get it? 

Scientists have documented less than 70 cases of human bird flu infection, and the vast majority of these cases have occurred in individuals who handled sick birds or milk from infected dairy animals. The virus spreads to humans when they interact with sick animals along with their own droppings. 

The consumption of dairy products and poultry and eggs remains safe for humans. 

Cooking poultry products along with eggs eliminates the virus so eating these foods carries no associated risks. Medical authorities have documented cases of ill feline pets suspected of catching the infection by eating raw pet food. Studies must verify the potential risk of drinking milk that comes from cows with infections. 

Who’s at risk? 

Professional care providers for sick birds and livestock are at risk. Similar to human flu infections, bird flu presents more danger to young children, elderly individuals, and those who have existing health problems. 

What signs indicate you have a viral infection? 

The illness starts with fever alongside coughing and affects the upper respiratory tract. Pink eye (conjunctivitis) appears among certain infected patients, according to current case reports, as reported by HealthDay. 

How can you protect yourself? 

You should minimize contact with sick animals while also wearing protective gear if situations demand it to lower your risk factors. Thorough cooking of poultry alongside proper preparation of eggs together with pasteurized dairy products serves as protective measures.