New bird flu strain detected in Nevada dairy worker, says CDC
A new strain of bird flu has been detected in a dairy worker in Nevada, marking the first known case of cow-to-human transmission. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the individual, who works at a dairy farm in Churchill County, experienced mild symptoms such as eye redness and irritation. Fortunately, the worker did not require hospitalization and has since recovered.
The new strain, known as D1.1, is different from the version that has been circulating in herds since last year. While this strain has been reported in more than a dozen humans who were exposed to infected poultry, this case represents the first instance of transmission from cows to humans.
According to the Central Nevada Health District (CNHD), there is no evidence of the virus spreading from the infected dairy worker to other individuals. However, those who work closely with cows, poultry, and other animals are advised to take precautions, such as wearing protective equipment, to reduce their risk of infection.
Experts have raised concerns about the potential for human-to-human transmission of the D1.1 strain. Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax in San Francisco, warned that the rapid progression from cattle infections to human cases indicates the presence of mammalian adaptive mutations in the virus. He emphasized the need for vigilance in monitoring the situation to prevent a potential H5N1 pandemic.
Sam Scarpino, director of AI and life sciences at Northeastern University, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the severity of the ongoing outbreak in the US. He praised the appointment of Dr. Gerald Parker to lead the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy, signaling a heightened focus on addressing the H5N1 situation.
In light of the growing threat posed by the new bird flu strain, it is essential for public health officials to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to control the outbreak. The CDC and other relevant authorities are closely monitoring the situation and working to prevent further spread of the virus.
