The Spread of Bird Flu Across the Nation
The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, commonly known as bird flu, has been spreading rapidly across the United States in recent months. This week brought concerning new reports of H5N1 bird flu being found in commercial poultry operations in Michigan and Texas. As well as dairy cattle herds in several states. Public health officials are monitoring the situation closely as the virus expands its host range.
According to the CDC, bird flu viruses normally circulate among wild aquatic birds worldwide and do not usually infect humans. However, there is potential for human infection from direct contact with infected live or dead poultry. While the current risk is considered low, the detection of bird flu in multiple domestic animal species is noteworthy.
What Are The Signs Of Bird Flu in Animals?
In poultry, signs of bird flu can include sudden death without clinical signs; lack of energy and appetite; decreased egg production; soft- or thin-shelled, misshapen eggs; swelling of the head, eyelids, combs, wattles, and hocks; purple discoloration of the wattles, combs, and legs; nasal discharge; coughing; sneezing; incoordination; and diarrhea. Cows infected may display symptoms such as eye redness and fatigue.
Public health officials emphasize that proper handling and cooking of poultry and eggs kills the virus. The public is urged to report any unusual deaths among wild birds, backyard flocks and domestic poultry to state and federal authorities. Ongoing surveillance will be important to monitor the spread and evolution of this important zoonotic disease.
