Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Helen Branswell
Published on 2024-04-18 17:55:57
The outbreak of H5N1 bird flu in dairy cow herds has raised concerns among scientists and pandemic experts. There is a call for the U.S. government to release more information to assess the risk posed by the outbreaks to cattle operations and people. Three and a half weeks after the initial announcement of cows testing positive for H5N1 in Texas, key information such as the effect of pasteurization on the virus and the link between affected herds in different states has not been disclosed.
Other countries are also seeking clarity on whether the virus has evolved to infect cattle more easily and the potential risks to their own herds and people. The lack of information shared by the U.S. has left many operating in the dark, prompting criticism from experts like Marion Koopmans from the Netherlands. The delay in transparent updates and data sharing is seen as a missed opportunity for timely dissemination of critical information.
The USDA, responsible for the investigations into the outbreaks, defended its commitment to timely and transparent information release. However, there are concerns about the limited data shared on genetic sequences from the outbreak, affecting the ability of outside scientists to monitor any virus changes. The USDA did mention offering sample viruses for research purposes and assured that more sequences would be shared in the coming days.
The impact of H5N1 on cattle operations, especially dairy farms, has raised questions about pasteurization of milk and contamination risks. Farmers have been advised to discard milk from infected cows, but the effectiveness of pasteurization against H5N1 remains uncertain. The movement of the virus from cows to other animals is a significant concern, as it could potentially lead to more dangerous strains and cross-species transmission.
The lack of information sharing by the U.S. government has drawn criticism from experts like Rick Bright, who emphasize the importance of transparency in outbreak investigations. The potential implications of the virus spreading to other species like pigs add another layer of concern, as pigs can serve as intermediate hosts for flu viruses, facilitating genetic exchange.
Efforts to contain the spread of H5N1 in dairy cattle herds require a better understanding of transmission routes and risk factors. The role of cattle movements, contaminated feed stocks, or wild bird migration in the outbreaks needs to be thoroughly investigated. The importance of transparent communication and data sharing, highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, cannot be overlooked in managing public health challenges like the current H5N1 outbreaks.
In conclusion, the urgency for more information and data transparency from the U.S. government regarding the H5N1 outbreaks in dairy cattle herds is crucial for effective risk assessment and containment strategies. Scientists and experts stress the need for timely updates and clear communication to address the evolving situation and mitigate potential threats to both cattle operations and public health.
