California is facing a serious outbreak of avian flu among dairy cattle and risks to humans.
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The Notizie.it editorial team
Posted on December 19, 2024 at 00:18
The declaration of emergency in California
California Governor Gavin Newsom recently declared a state of emergency due to the increasing spread of avian influenza among dairy cattle. This decision represents a clear signal of the seriousness of the situation, which has caused concern not only among farmers, but also among citizens. The statement was issued in response to an increase in infection cases, which led to extraordinary measures to contain the spread of the virus.
The first serious case in the United States
The situation was further complicated with the announcement of the first serious case of avian flu in a man in the United States, recorded in Louisiana. This individual was hospitalized after contracting the A/H1N virus, likely from infected birds in his garden. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that while this case is concerning, no person-to-person transmission has been detected, keeping the immediate public health risk low.
The implications of the contagion
The avian flu virus has been shown to infect not only birds, but also some species of mammals. This raises questions about the possibility of species jumping, which could lead to wider transmission between humans. However, the CDC reassures that the feared jump of the virus from animals to humans has not occurred, an event that could have devastating consequences for public health.
Genetic analysis and virus variants
Genetic analyzes carried out on the virus variant present in humans hospitalized in Louisiana revealed that it belongs to the D1.1 genotype, related to viruses recently identified in wild birds and poultry. This genotype is different from the B3.13 genotype, which has been found in dairy cows and in sporadic human cases. The discovery of different variants highlights the complexity of the situation and the need to carefully monitor outbreaks of contagion.
The response of health authorities
Health authorities are stepping up efforts to contain the spread of bird flu, paying particular attention to poultry and dairy farms. It is essential that breeders and animal owners are informed of the risks and preventive measures to take. Active surveillance and rapid communication are essential to guarantee the safety of the population and prevent new cases of contagion.
