Two recent developments related to H5N1 avian flu have emerged in the United States. In California, two chickens at a live bird market in San Francisco tested positive for H5N1 avian flu last month, and fragments of the virus were detected in the city's wastewater. This marks the first detection of H5N1 avian flu in California's municipal wastewater.
In other news, Michigan and Texas continue to grapple with outbreaks of H5N1 influenza in dairy herds. The latest reports from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) indicate that 13 more outbreaks have been identified in these states, bringing the total number to 80.
The WastewaterSCAN team at Stanford University has developed an H5 probe to test wastewater for the presence of H5 influenza viruses. The group recently reported significant levels of the virus at three treatment plants in communities where H5N1 had been detected in cattle. However, it's important to note that the test is not specific to H5N1 and can pick up low-pathogenic H5 influenza viruses as well.
In Iowa, Governor Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Cherokee County following a highly pathogenic avian flu outbreak at a commercial turkey farm. The declaration allows state agency resources to assist with tracking and monitoring, rapid detection, containment, disposal, and disinfection. Commercial vehicles responding to affected sites are also exempt from certain rules.
Scientists have reported findings on a massive 2023 H5N1 outbreak in Argentina's elephant seals. They identified evidence of mammal-to-mammal transmission and 18 mutations possibly linked to increased virulence, transmission, or adaptation to mammals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently posted its strategy for enhanced flu surveillance over the summer due to ongoing activity in cows, poultry, and other animals. The agency also reported three human cases of bird flu nationwide, all among people who work with dairy cows.
It's important to remember that there is no threat to public health from cooked poultry or eggs as the virus cannot survive temperatures above 165°F (74°C). If you have a pet bird, practice good hygiene and clean their cage regularly. Monitor their health closely for any signs of illness.