Avian Flu Reported in 108 Countries Across Five Continents, Says UN Health Agency
December 17, 2024
The United Nations health agency, the World Health Organization (WHO), has reported that the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus, commonly known as bird flu, has been detected in 108 countries across five continents. The virus has caused significant losses in the poultry industry and raised concerns about potential transmission to humans.
Global Outbreak
The HPAI virus has been spreading rapidly since it was first reported in poultry flocks in China in late 2021. Since then, it has spread to North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. The virus has primarily affected domestic poultry, including chickens, turkeys, and ducks, but it has also been detected in wild birds.
Economic Impact
The outbreak has had a devastating impact on the poultry industry, leading to the culling of millions of birds worldwide. This has resulted in significant financial losses for poultry producers and disruptions in the supply chain. In the United States alone, the outbreak has caused an estimated $5 billion in losses for the industry.
Human Health Risk
While bird flu primarily affects poultry, there have been rare cases of human infection. The WHO has reported 56 human cases of HPAI since 2021, most of which have occurred in Southeast Asia. Most cases have been mild, but there have been some severe and fatal infections.
The WHO emphasizes that the risk of human infection remains low, but it advises people to take precautions to avoid contact with infected birds and poultry products. These precautions include:
- Avoiding contact with sick or dead birds
- Cooking poultry and eggs thoroughly
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoiding contact with surfaces that may have been contaminated with the virus
International Response
The WHO is working with national health authorities and veterinary services to monitor the outbreak and prevent its further spread. The organization is providing technical guidance to countries on surveillance, containment measures, and risk communication.
The WHO is also collaborating with international partners to develop new vaccines and treatments for bird flu. The development of effective vaccines is crucial for controlling the outbreak in poultry and reducing the risk of human infection.
Conclusion
The HPAI outbreak continues to pose a significant threat to the poultry industry and human health. The WHO is urging countries to strengthen their surveillance and control measures to prevent the further spread of the virus. Individuals are also advised to take precautions to minimize the risk of human infection. By working together, the international community can mitigate the impact of this outbreak and protect both animal and human health.
Avian flu reported in 108 countries across five continents, says UN health agency
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