Angle: creeping “human-to-human” bird flu mutations that scientists fear

7/6/2024 8:06 AM GMT+9

Scientists tracking the spread of avian influenza are deepening concerns that “investigations are insufficient, and countermeasures against the spread of new infections may take a backseat.” It was revealed in a Reuters interview with more than a dozen leading researchers on avian influenza.
Many researchers have monitored the occurrence of new variants of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) seen in migratory birds since 2020. Infections have spread to 129 dairy cow groups in 12 states in the United States, and there is a possibility that this virus will mutate into a type that is transmitted from human to human. Cases of infection have also been discovered in other mammals, from alpacas to house cats.

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Experts agree that while acting quickly to eliminate threats, a sense of balance is necessary to avoid overreaction.
Avian influenza researcher at Imperial College London, Wendy Barclay, who advises the British Health and Security Agency, said, “I would like to call attention, but I have no intention of causing a stir that humanity will perish.”