WHO: Four New Human Cases of H5N1 Avian Influenza in the U.S.
California reports 4 more probable H5 cases in dairy workers Oct 16, 2024 Photo: @CIDRAP
October 16, 2024 Hour: 5:26 pm
The WHO is collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and other partners to enhance protective measures and investigate these new cases.
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WHO Calls for Intensified Surveillance of Avian Influenza
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported four new cases of H5N1 avian influenza in humans in the United States, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 20. Most of these cases are linked to dairy farms, as stated by WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday.
In just one month, the number of infected herds has increased from 200 to 300. “All but one were exposed to infected cattle or poultry,” Tedros emphasized, expressing concern over the rising number of livestock affected by the virus.
The WHO is collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and other partners to enhance protective measures and investigate these new cases.
Despite millions of birds being infected and dying from H5N1 over the past two decades, human cases remain rare, with approximately 900 reported since 2003. However, the virus’s lethality is alarming, as more than half of the infections have resulted in death.
During a press conference, Tedros reminded attendees that with winter approaching in the Northern Hemisphere, seasonal flu vaccination campaigns have begun, which annually cause hundreds of thousands of deaths globally. He urged adherence to national health authority guidelines.
The WHO particularly recommends vaccination for pregnant women, children under five years old, individuals over 65 years old, those with chronic medical conditions, and healthcare workers. Additionally, many countries are simultaneously offering vaccines for both flu and COVID-19
Autor: MLM
Fuente: EFE
