US Experts Concerned About Lack of Data Sharing on Avian Influenza Outbreak

Experts are concerned about the lack of data sharing by the US on the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in dairy cows, as the virus continues to spread across new herds and states. The US Department of Agriculture has reported 32 affected herds in eight states but has not clarified if all herds are linked in a single outbreak chain. There are concerns about how the virus is evolving and potentially infecting mammals, posing a risk to humans. Additionally, the USDA has faced criticism for not sharing enough genetic data but has now released 239 genetic sequences in response. Despite the concerns, both the USDA and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention consider the risk to the public to be low, with precautions recommended for those in direct contact with infected animals.

Key Takeaways

• Highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) is spreading among US dairy cows, with 32 affected herds across eight states.
• USDA's lack of transparency regarding genetic information from isolated viruses is causing widespread concern.
• The virus is spreading through cow-to-cow transmission via contaminated milking equipment, raising uncertainty about its spread to asymptomatic herds.
• Experts worry about the potential evolution of the virus to infect humans and the threat of new recombinant flu strains in nearby pig farms.
• Facing criticism, the USDA released 239 genetic sequences and raw data for public transparency but maintains a low public risk assessment.

Analysis

The lack of data sharing by the US on the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in dairy cows is raising concerns among experts. The US Department of Agriculture's limited transparency regarding genetic information from isolated viruses is causing widespread worry. The virus's spread through cow-to-cow transmission and potential evolution to infect humans poses short-term risks to public health and long-term threats of new recombinant flu strains in nearby pig farms. The consequences are significant for the affected dairy herds, states, the USDA, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and public confidence in food safety. Lack of transparency could also impact global trade in dairy products.

Did You Know?

• Highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) is spreading among US dairy cows, with 32 affected herds across eight states.
• USDA's lack of transparency regarding genetic information from isolated viruses is causing widespread concern.
• Facing criticism, the USDA released 239 genetic sequences and raw data for public transparency but maintains a low public risk assessment.