Avian Influenza Outbreak in the U.S.
Poultry farmers in the U.S. are concerned about the rise of highly pathogenic avian influenza. A person who had contact with dairy cows in Texas tested positive for bird flu, following positive tests in milk from dairy cows in Texas and Kansas. While the risk to the public is currently low, precautions are advised for those regularly around infected animals.
Key Points
- Rise of avian influenza in the U.S.
- Risk to public currently low
- Precautions advised for those around infected animals
Pros
- Increased awareness of avian influenza risks
- Precautions can be taken to prevent infection
Cons
- High fatality rate for birds with the disease
- Historical cases show more than half of human cases resulted in death