A newer strain of H5N1 bird flu, D1.1, has spread to six dairy herds in Nevada, leading to serious infections in humans and affecting over 957 dairy herds and 153 million poultry in the US. The virus has caused an egg shortage and higher prices. The strain has been linked to deaths in Louisiana and hospitalizations in Canada. Experts are concerned about its potential to mutate and spread globally.
Key Points
Spread to six dairy herds in Nevada.
Linked to serious infections in humans.
Affecting over 957 dairy herds and 153 million poultry in the US.
Caused egg shortage and higher prices.
Linked to deaths in Louisiana and hospitalizations in Canada.
Experts concerned about potential global spread.
Pros
Early detection of the new H5N1 strain D1.1 in Nevada dairy herds.
Cons
Serious infections in humans linked to the new strain.
Potential for the virus to mutate and spread globally.