The spread of the H5N1 virus in the United States has sparked concern following the first human case of avian flu and new infections in felines. However, experts caution against panic.
US health authorities reported that an elderly patient with underlying conditions was hospitalised in critical condition in Louisiana due to avian flu, marking the first such case in the country. Genetic sequencing showed mutations in a small segment of the virus found in the patient’s throat, possibly making it more adapted to the upper respiratory tract.
The CDC noted these mutations likely developed within the patient and acknowledged the tendency of RNA viruses to mutate. Experts emphasised there was no evidence the virus had become more transmissible, as no other cases were linked to this one.
For months, the US has faced an avian flu epizootic, with increasing mammal infections raising concerns about potential mutations enabling human-to-human transmission. Researchers noted that while genetic changes observed in the Louisiana case could potentially increase transmissibility, such changes alone were insufficient.
Experts also expressed concern over the virus’s high circulation levels, which increase the chance of mixing with seasonal flu viruses. This could trigger scenarios similar to the 1918 or 2009 flu pandemics.
Additionally, a growing number of feline infections has drawn attention. In Oregon, a cat died after consuming raw pet food contaminated with H5N1. Similarly, 20 infected cats died in a Washington shelter. Experts warn close contact with infected cats could pose a risk to humans.
The H5N1 strain first appeared in 1996 but has seen a sharp rise in outbreaks among birds and mammals since 2020. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
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Source: ANA-MPA
