Nations Urged to Increase Surveillance and Biosecurity Measures
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has urged nations to step up their response to the ongoing H5N1 avian flu outbreak, which continues to affect poultry, mammals, and the global food supply.
The call comes amid increasing cases worldwide, leading to significant losses in agriculture and concerns about transmission risks.
FAO Deputy Director-General Godfrey Magwenzi emphasized the severity of the situation. "The spread of H5N1 is unprecedented, leading to serious impacts on food security and food supply in countries, including loss of valuable nutrition, rural jobs and income, shocks to local economies, and of course increasing costs to consumers."
Escalating Outbreaks and Response Measures
The FAO reported a significant shift in H5N1 transmission over the last four years, with the virus affecting over 300 wild bird species since 2021. Officials highlighted the complex challenges in controlling outbreaks, urging stronger surveillance, enhanced laboratory capacity, improved biosecurity, and outbreak response strategies.
Some countries are also exploring vaccination as a potential solution.
H5N1 Detected in Cats Linked to Raw Pet Food
In the U.S., the New York City Health Department (NYC Health) has linked cases of avian flu in cats to contaminated raw pet food. Two confirmed cases and a suspected third case were traced to Savage Cat Food, prompting a voluntary recall of raw chicken products sold in multiple states.
Lab tests revealed that the second infected cat, which did not consume the food but was exposed to a sick cat, tested positive for the virus.
New H5N1 Cases in Poultry and Cattle
The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed additional H5N1 cases:
Additionally, another dairy cattle herd in California tested positive, raising the U.S. total to 986 cases across 17 states.
Scientific Research on Virus Pathogenicity
New studies from Texas Medical Branch revealed that the bovine H5N1 strain has increased pathogenicity, showing rapid virus replication and severe effects in lung cells and mice.
Another St. Jude’s Hospital study found that the antiviral drug baloxavir outperforms oseltamivir in reducing viral spread, supporting its use in future pandemic preparedness efforts.
With rising cases, FAO and USDA continue urging enhanced control measures to mitigate further spread and protect food security.