H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak in Wyoming and Ohio

SOURCE www.theguardian.com
Two people in Wyoming and Ohio have been hospitalized with H5N1 bird flu. The patient in Wyoming is still in the hospital, while the Ohio patient has been released. The CDC warns that H5N1 can be severe and potentially lead to a pandemic. Previous cases suggest some level of cross-protection from prior H1N1 infection.

Key Points

  • H5N1 bird flu cases in Wyoming and Ohio
  • Severity of H5N1 infection highlighted
  • Potential for reassortment and pandemic emphasized
  • Cross-protection from prior H1N1 infection suggested

Pros

  • CDC monitoring and reporting on cases
  • Potential for cross-protection from previous H1N1 infection

Cons

  • Severity of H5N1 infection
  • Potential for reassortment and pandemic