New bird flu outbreak reported in Mississippi, infecting more than 47K chickens
A recent bird flu outbreak has been confirmed in the United States, with the deadly H7N9 strain detected on a poultry farm in Noxubee, Mississippi. This marks the first time this strain has been seen since 2017. The World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) confirmed the infection of 47,654 commercial broiler-breeder chickens on March 13.
Samples from the affected flock were tested at the Mississippi Veterinary Research & Diagnostic Laboratory and came back positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, as announced by the State of Mississippi Board of Animal Health on March 12. The area has been quarantined, and the birds on the property have been depopulated to prevent the spread of the virus. Fortunately, none of the birds from the flock have entered the food system.
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is working alongside state animal health and wildlife officials to conduct a comprehensive epidemiological investigation and enhanced surveillance in response to the detection of the H7N9 strain on the poultry farm.
While the H5N1 strain of bird flu has caused significant damage to poultry and even resulted in the death of one person, the H7N9 strain has a high death rate for humans worldwide, according to Reuters. Since its first detection in China in 2013, the H7N9 strain has killed 616 out of 1,568 people infected globally, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO).
It’s important to note that neither the H5N1 nor the H7N9 strains of bird flu have been found to transmit easily from person to person. Despite the rise in cases of bird flu in recent weeks, experts like WebMD CEO Dr. John Whyte advise against excessive concern. Dr. Whyte recommends cooking poultry and eggs thoroughly to an internal temperature of about 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure safety.
In conclusion, while awareness of bird flu is crucial, there is no need for panic. Stay informed, follow proper food safety practices, and monitor updates from health authorities. For more health-related articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
This article was rewritten and adapted for a WordPress platform by Angelica Stabile, a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.
