Bird Flu Outbreak Spreads Across US, Threatening Food Supply
A recent outbreak of bird flu has now affected fifteen farms across six US states, raising concerns about the virus spreading to people. The milk supply is in jeopardy due to infected herds, with America’s largest egg producer in Texas culling nearly 2 million birds in an effort to contain the spread.
The first case in cattle has been reported in Texas, with cases reported in herds across the country. A Texas farm worker and three cats have also tested positive for the virus. Despite these cases, the risk to the public is still considered low.
Experts suggest that the virus may spread through infected milk droplets on clothes or equipment. Diseased cows are eating less and producing less milk, but are not dying from the disease. Concerns are also growing over the virus gaining mutations to better infect mammals and spread between them.
A mild human case has raised worries about potentially missed cases. The CDC and other health agencies are monitoring the situation closely, as more than 40 different species are now affected by the bird flu virus.
As the outbreak continues to spread, it is imperative that measures are taken to prevent further transmission of the virus. The impact on the food supply chain could be significant if the virus is not contained quickly. Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops.
