Bird Flu, also known as avian influenza, refers to a group of viral infections that primarily affect birds, particularly domestic poultry. Caused by various strains of the influenza A virus, bird flu can lead to significant illness and mortality in bird populations. The most notable strains that have been associated with severe outbreaks include H5N1 and H7N9.
While the disease mainly impacts birds, certain strains can be transmitted to humans, often resulting from close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Symptoms in humans can range from mild respiratory issues to severe pneumonia or acute respiratory distress, and in some cases, bird flu can be fatal.
Bird flu is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans, raising concerns about its potential to cause pandemics if it acquires the ability to transmit efficiently between humans. Control measures for bird flu include vaccination of poultry, surveillance of bird populations, culling affected flocks, and biosecurity practices in farming operations to prevent the spread of the virus.
U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., proposes a controversial approach to managing avian influenza by allowing the virus to run its course to identify naturally…
Avian influenza has been detected in the waterfowl of Yoctangee Park, Ohio, raising concerns about wildlife health. While the risk to humans is low, visitors should avoid contact with sick…
Bird flu has become a significant concern in Pennsylvania and other regions, primarily affecting avian populations. While human cases are rare and generally mild, the virus heavily impacts poultry and…
The great horned owl in Wake County has fallen victim to bird flu, marking the virus's return after a year. Other wildlife affected include a hawk, numerous geese, and poultry…
Ohio reports its first human casualty from bird flu, marking the 68th U.S. case in 2024, following a fatality in Louisiana. The avian influenza has spread to a farm worker…
A significant health development has emerged in British Columbia, where a teenager has been diagnosed with the H5 strain of avian influenza. Health officials confirmed this groundbreaking case, marking the…