**Avian Influenza Surveillance Dashboard Update** The USDA's Wild Bird Avian Influenza Surveillance Dashboard will be updated weekly on Wednesdays to reflect the latest data on avian influenza in North America. **New CDC Recommendations** The CDC has developed new interim recommendations for the prevention, monitoring, and public health response to avian influenza. These recommendations are based on the latest scientific data and best practices. **What is Avian Influenza?** Avian influenza (AI) is caused by an influenza type A virus that can infect poultry and other birds. The virus can cause a range of clinical signs, from mild respiratory symptoms to severe disease and death. **Distribution of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza** The USDA is currently tracking the distribution of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in North America. HPAI is a highly contagious and deadly form of AI that can cause significant economic losses to the poultry industry. **USDA Resources** The USDA provides a variety of resources on avian influenza, including information on prevention, control, and response. These resources are available online at the USDA website. **For More Information** For more information on avian influenza, please visit the following websites: * USDA Wild Bird Avian Influenza Surveillance Dashboard: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/avian/avian-influenza/wild-birds * CDC Avian Influenza: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/index.htm * USDA Avian Influenza: https://www.usda.gov/avian-influenza
**Avian Influenza Surveillance Dashboard Update** The USDA's Wild Bird Avian Influenza Surveillance Dashboard will be updated weekly on Wednesdays to reflect the latest data on avian influenza in North America. **New CDC Recommendations** The CDC has developed new interim recommendations for the prevention, monitoring, and public health response to avian influenza. These recommendations are based on the latest scientific data and best practices. **What is Avian Influenza?** Avian influenza (AI) is caused by an influenza type A virus that can infect poultry and other birds. The virus can cause a range of clinical signs, from mild respiratory symptoms to severe disease and death. **Distribution of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza** The USDA is currently tracking the distribution of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in North America. HPAI is a highly contagious and deadly form of AI that can cause significant economic losses to the poultry industry. **USDA Resources** The USDA provides a variety of resources on avian influenza, including information on prevention, control, and response. These resources are available online at the USDA website. **For More Information** For more information on avian influenza, please visit the following websites: * USDA Wild Bird Avian Influenza Surveillance Dashboard: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/avian/avian-influenza/wild-birds * CDC Avian Influenza: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/index.htm * USDA Avian Influenza: https://www.usda.gov/avian-influenza
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**Avian Influenza Virus H5N1 Remains Infectious at Low Temperatures for Extended Periods** **New Research Highlights the Resilience of the Highly Pathogenic Virus** In a recent study published in the journal "Semantic Scholar," researchers have investigated the effects of various physico-chemical factors on the survival of the avian influenza virus H5N1. The findings have significant implications for understanding the transmission and control of this highly pathogenic virus. According to the researchers, the H5N1 virus exhibited remarkable resilience at low temperatures. Experiments showed that the virus retained its infectivity at 4 degrees Celsius (39.2 degrees Fahrenheit) for over 100 days. This extended survival period suggests that the virus can persist in the environment for prolonged durations, even in cold climates. The study also analyzed the effects of other environmental factors on virus survival. The virus was found to be relatively stable at neutral pH levels (pH 7) but lost infectivity rapidly at acidic (pH 3) or alkaline (pH 11) conditions. Similarly, exposure to organic solvents, such as chloroform and ether, had a significant inactivating effect on the virus. These findings provide valuable insights into the ecology and epidemiology of H5N1. The virus's ability to remain infectious at low temperatures underscores the potential for its long-term persistence in poultry populations and the environment. This highlights the importance of comprehensive biosecurity measures and stringent hygiene practices to minimize the risk of viral transmission and outbreaks. Moreover, the study demonstrates the susceptibility of H5N1 to environmental cues, such as pH and organic solvents. This information can potentially guide the development of novel antiviral agents and intervention strategies aimed at controlling the spread of the virus. The research team emphasizes that further studies are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the virus's survival and to develop effective countermeasures against this global health threat.
**Avian Influenza: What You Need to Know** **What is Avian Influenza?** Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a disease caused by infection with avian bird influenza Type A viruses. These viruses are naturally found in wild aquatic birds worldwide. **Transmission and Symptoms** Most wild birds infected with bird flu viruses do not show any signs or symptoms of illness. However, some bird flu viruses can infect domestic poultry and other domestic animals, including cows. In domestic birds, bird flu can cause severe respiratory symptoms and death. **H5N1 and Cattle** The H5N1 strain of avian influenza is particularly concerning. Currently, there are no reports of cattle deaths from H5N1 infection, but extensive monitoring is ongoing. **Importance of Prevention** Preventing the spread of avian influenza is crucial to protect birds, domestic animals, and humans. Good biosecurity practices, such as isolating infected animals and preventing contact with wild birds, are essential. **Human Health** While avian influenza viruses primarily infect birds, they can occasionally infect humans. Symptoms in humans can range from mild respiratory illness to severe pneumonia. Human cases are rare, but they can occur through contact with infected birds or their secretions. **Stay Informed and Take Precautions** It is important to stay informed about the latest avian influenza situation. Follow official guidelines from your local health authorities. If you suspect exposure to avian influenza, seek medical attention immediately. **Remember:** * Avian influenza is a disease primarily affecting birds. * H5N1 is a concerning strain, but no cattle deaths have been reported. * Prevention through biosecurity practices is crucial. * Human cases are rare but can occur. * Seek medical attention if you suspect exposure to avian influenza.
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**Avian Influenza Outbreak Affects Dairy Cows in the US** **April 3, 2024** An outbreak of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is affecting dairy cows in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza A viruses H5, H7, and H9 in dairy cattle. According to the CDC, avian influenza viruses can cause severe illness and death in poultry and other birds. However, human infections with these viruses are uncommon, although they have occurred sporadically worldwide. Scientists are closely monitoring the ongoing global avian influenza outbreak, which has resulted in the death of millions of birds. The CDC's H5N1 Bird Flu Technical Reports provide the latest information on this outbreak. The spread of avian influenza in dairy cows raises concerns about potential transmission to humans through the consumption of contaminated dairy products. However, there is currently no evidence to suggest that this is occurring. Dairy farmers are advised to implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the virus to their herds. These measures include: * Restricting access to poultry and other birds * Using personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling livestock * Disinfecting equipment and surfaces regularly * Vaccinating cattle against avian influenza The CDC recommends that people avoid contact with sick birds and poultry products that may be contaminated with the virus. If you have any symptoms of avian influenza, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, contact your healthcare provider immediately. The USDA and state animal health officials are working to contain the outbreak and prevent its further spread. Consumers are advised to follow the CDC's recommendations for safe handling and consumption of dairy products.
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