A World Health Organization representative cautioned on Tuesday about the potential spread of the H5N1 bird flu virus to cows in countries beyond the United States through migratory birds.
Following the confirmation of the H5N1 virus in 34 dairy cattle herds across nine states since late March, as well as in one person in Texas, U.S. authorities are undertaking efforts to verify the safety of milk and meat.
Wenqing Zhang, head of WHO’s Global Influenza Programme, emphasized at a news briefing in Geneva that with the virus being carried by migratory birds globally, there exists a risk of infection for cows in other nations.
While Zhang reiterated that the overall public health risk posed by the virus remains low, she stressed the importance of remaining vigilant.
In response to a query regarding the transparency of the U.S. in handling the outbreak thus far, Zhang acknowledged that the WHO had been receiving regular updates and commended the decision to promptly share the virus genetic sequence.
“I believe the collaboration with the U.S. CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and the information provided thus far enables us to monitor the situation effectively and update preparedness measures,” she remarked.
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