The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that the H5N1 type of avian influenza virus (H5N1) has been detected in pigs for the first time in America. in the state of Oregon in the Western United States
In the past, scientists were concerned that the bird flu virus would spread to pigs. Because it might be able to mutate into a more dangerous virus and could be transmitted to people more easily.
However, the FDA believes there is no risk of avian influenza in pork from Oregon. And the chance of bird flu among the public is still low.
In 2009, there was an outbreak of the H1N1 flu, which is believed to have started in pigs before spreading to humans.
Dr. Richard Webbe, a pathologist at St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital said there is little risk at this time. But if the virus spreads among pigs in large farms, the risk will increase.
The USDA says that Other animals are in quarantine at the Oregon farm where the pig was recently infected with bird flu. And all kinds of animals are studied. Including the slaughter of pigs and chickens at that farm to prevent an outbreak.
Officials believe that wild birds in the area carry the virus that is affecting pigs at the farm. Currently, cow’s milk from many places has been tested to prevent outbreaks as well.
This year, 36 people in the United States have been infected with bird flu, almost all among livestock workers who come into direct contact with infected animals.
Since 2022, the bird flu virus has killed more than 100 million chickens, making it the worst outbreak ever.
- Source: Reuters
2024-10-30 22:08:00
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