USDA Detects Second Type of Bird Flu in Nevada Farm Dairy Cows
New Findings Raise Concerns about Wider Spread and Control
Dairy cattle in Nevada have been infected with a new type of bird flu that’s different from the version that has spread in U.S. herds since last year, according to the Agriculture Department. The detection indicates that distinct forms of the virus known as Type A H5N1 have spilled over from wild birds into cattle at least twice.
Experts Weigh In on the Findings
"I always thought one bird-to-cow transmission was a very rare event. Seems that may not be the case," said Richard Webby, an influenza expert at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
What’s New about the Virus?
A version of the H5N1 bird flu virus known as B3.13 was confirmed in March after being introduced to cattle in late 2023, scientists said. It has infected more than 950 herds in 16 states. The new version, known as D1.1, was confirmed in Nevada cattle on Friday, according to USDA. It was detected in milk collected as part of a surveillance program launched in December.
Implications for Human Health
The D1.1 version of the virus was the type linked to the first U.S. death tied to bird flu and a severe illness in Canada. A person in Louisiana died in January after developing severe respiratory symptoms following contact with wild and backyard birds. In British Columbia, a teen girl was hospitalized for months with a virus traced to poultry.
Global Concerns
At least 67 people in the U.S. have been infected with bird flu, mostly those who work closely with dairy or cattle, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Call to Action
USDA officials said they would post genetic sequences and other information about the new form of the virus to a public repository later this week. Scientists said that would be key to understanding whether the spillover was a recent event or whether the virus has been circulating, perhaps widely, for longer.
Conclusion
The detection of a second type of bird flu in Nevada dairy cows raises concerns about the potential for wider spread and the difficulty of controlling infections in animals and the people who work closely with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the bird flu?
- The bird flu, also known as H5N1, is a type of influenza virus that originated in birds and can infect humans.
- How many people have been infected with bird flu?
- At least 67 people in the U.S. have been infected with bird flu, mostly those who work closely with dairy or cattle.
- What are the symptoms of bird flu?
- Symptoms of bird flu in humans can include fever, cough, and respiratory problems.
- How can I protect myself from bird flu?
- To protect yourself from bird flu, avoid contact with wild and backyard birds, and take proper precautions when handling poultry.
