Rising Concern Over Avian Flu: A Looming Threat
Outbreaks Amidst Growing Cases
In late July 2005, official reports to the OIE from government authorities revealed a concerning trend: a bird flu outbreak due to the H7N3 virus among poultry in Canada, which occurred between February and May 2004. This outbreak served as a wake-up call, prompting heightened surveillance and concern.
Global Impact and Human Health Risks
As of 2005, only 45 human cases of H5N1 avian flu had been recorded, resulting in 32 deaths. However, experts warned that the virus's potential for human transmission and its ability to mutate into more dangerous strains posed a significant threat to global public health. Birds, being natural reservoirs for the influenza virus, carry various subtypes, including H5, H7, and H9, all of which have the potential to cause outbreaks in poultry and pose risks to humans.
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