United States: Three American dairy veterinarians acquired the H5N1 bird flu virus accidentally based on a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report. The release of these findings through the February 13 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report indicates that there may be hidden virus transmission, as reported by HealthDay.
Study Details and Key Findings
A CDC study checked for bird flu antibodies in 150 veterinarians from 46 different states. The three veterinarians who tested positive for bird flu infection did not display symptoms while also lacking any reported cow exposure. The obtained results indicate there might be previously unknown transmission routes for the virus.
Official data indicates bird flu has affected over 960 dairy farms and caused 68 human infections in the U.S., mainly among farm workers handling sick animals. However, the study reveals a possible broader risk to veterinary workers.
Potential Sources and Safety Concerns
All veterinarians who developed infection worked without handling livestock from confirmed herds. Only one bull worked exclusively within the borders of Georgia and South Carolina which never reported dairy cattle outbreaks. The authors identified safety shortcomings because the infected veterinarians failed to use protective gear including goggles and respiratory equipment although they wore protective clothing and gloves, as reported by HealthDay.
Call for Action
Dr. Nahid Bhadelia from Boston University joins other experts to advocate for veterinary staff and farm worker testing to gain essential information about the virus spread. The study demonstrates the urgent requirement for better safety measures and enhanced monitoring practices including bulk milk examination systems to stop virus transmission.