Bird flu is hitting the U.S. hard. Now, migratory birds are flying north

Bird flu is a major concern in the United States, with nearly 167 million birds impacted by the H5N1 strain since 2022 and 70 people infected. As birds begin their spring migration, scientists are on high alert, monitoring and working to curb the spread of the virus.

Recent cases of wild birds testing positive for H5N1 in Canada, along with the detection of the H7N9 strain in a poultry farm in Mississippi, have heightened concerns. H7N9 has a higher death rate than H5N1, killing nearly 40% of humans infected since 2013. Additionally, the virus has crossed species barriers, affecting animals like seals, cats, dogs, and dairy cows in the U.S.

There is a fear that the H5N1 strain could mutate to become more transmissible between humans, posing a significant threat. The recent death of a senior in Louisiana due to H5N1 and a teenager in British Columbia being the only known case in Canada have raised alarms. Genetic analysis suggests that the virus has adapted to attach to cells in the upper respiratory tract.

Despite the challenges posed by the evolving nature of bird flu, international cooperation is essential in containing the virus. The U.S. administration’s decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization and cut funding for key agencies like the National Institutes of Health has raised concerns about reduced information sharing and collaboration.

However, efforts are being made to strengthen surveillance and preparedness for potential outbreaks. Canadian authorities are working closely with their U.S. counterparts to monitor bird flu cases and share information on mutations of concern. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is actively testing samples of raw milk to ensure the virus is not present in dairy cows.

Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic are being applied to enhance monitoring and response strategies for bird flu. Canadian scientists are conducting research to monitor mutations in the virus, develop antibody tests, and study how bird flu is transmitted. These efforts aim to provide decision-makers with the necessary tools to combat the virus effectively.

Overall, while the U.S. faces challenges in addressing the growing threat of bird flu, collaboration with Canada and other international partners remains crucial in preventing the spread of the virus and protecting public health.