The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is keeping a close eye on a rise in bird flu cases in the U.S. right now. They want to make sure this illness doesn’t turn into something more serious, like a pandemic. So far, there have been 66 confirmed cases of bird flu in humans.
The CDC is particularly worried about certain warning signs, like if the virus starts spreading from person to person or if it changes in a way that makes it easier for people to catch it. A spokesperson from the CDC told Newsweek that they are looking out for groups of people who get sick from the A(H5N1) bird flu virus because that could mean it’s becoming more contagious.
Just last week, the CDC reported about a patient in Louisiana who was very ill with a mutated version of the bird flu. Doctors found changes in the virus that were not seen in any sick birds on the patient’s property. This suggests that these mutations happened after the patient got infected.
Even though these mutations are rare, similar changes have been seen in bird flu cases in other countries before, especially in severe cases. The CDC does say that the risk to the general public is still low, and there has been no sign that the virus has spread from the Louisiana patient to anyone else. They also assure everyone that no sick birds or bird products will get into our food.
The CDC will keep monitoring human cases and will give updates on January 3. They are focused on stopping the spread of the virus.
What is Bird Flu, and How Can You Stay Safe?
Bird flu, also called avian influenza, is a virus that mainly affects birds but can sometimes infect humans too. It usually spreads when someone comes into contact with sick birds, their droppings, or dirty surfaces.
How to Stay Safe:
1. Don’t touch wild or sick birds.
2. Cook chicken and eggs well.
3. Wash your hands often with soap and water.
4. Tell local authorities if you see a lot of dead birds.
Stay alert and protect yourself!
Leave a Reply