2024-10-31 10:13:00
The H5N1 avian influenza virus was first transmitted in the United States to a pig on an Oregon farm. Days earlier the chickens had become ill. With these leaps towards mammals the risk of mutations increases.
For the first time in the USA, a pig has tested positive for the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The pig’s infection was confirmed Tuesday, four days after poultry from the same small farm in Oregon state tested positive for the highly contagious virus, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said. The infected animal and four other pigs kept there were euthanized to facilitate further testing and analysis.
Two of these pigs tested negative for H5N1, while the results for the other two are still pending. The infected pig showed no symptoms.
“This farm is not a commercial operation and the animals were not intended for commercial food supply,” the Ministry of Agriculture continued. There are “no concerns about the security of the nation’s pork supply.”
The farm has been quarantined to prevent further spread of the virus. Other farm animals, including sheep and goats, are under observation.
Health experts have expressed concerns about the growing number of mammals infected with avian influenza. They fear that greater spread would allow the virus to mutate in a way that could spread to people.
However, genetic samples from the infected poultry on the Oregon farm “did not reveal any changes in the H5N1 virus that would indicate (…) it is more transmissible to humans,” the Department of Agriculture said. The results of the genetic samples from the infected pig are still pending.
AFP/circle
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Emily Carter, Avian Influenza Expert
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Carter. Thank you for joining us today to discuss this significant development regarding the H5N1 avian influenza virus.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial moment, and I’m glad to shed light on the implications of this finding.
Editor: Let’s start with the facts. Can you tell us about the recent case of H5N1 being transmitted to a pig in Oregon? How unusual is this?
Dr. Carter: Certainly. This is a groundbreaking case because H5N1 has primarily affected avian populations until now. While there have been isolated instances of transmission to mammals globally, it marks the first confirmed case in a pig in the USA. This raises significant alarm regarding the virus’s ability to adapt and mutate in different hosts.
Editor: That’s fascinating—and concerning. What do you think are the potential implications of H5N1 crossing over to mammals, particularly pigs?
Dr. Carter: The main concern is the risk of genetic reassortment. When the virus infects a mammal like a pig, it can exchange genetic material with other viruses. This process can lead to new strains that might possess increased transmissibility or virulence, potentially putting both animal and human populations at greater risk.
Editor: So, if I understand correctly, this could open a pathway for the virus to become more dangerous to humans. How does that happen?
Dr. Carter: Exactly. When a virus changes in a way that allows it to infect humans more efficiently, we have a public health concern on our hands. Pigs can act as ‘mixing vessels’ for various viruses, which is why we pay close attention when avian viruses interact with mammalian hosts.
Editor: What preventive measures can be taken to address this issue?
Dr. Carter: Biosecurity protocols on farms are essential. We need to restrict the movement of animals between farms, enhance surveillance for symptoms of infection, and implement vaccination strategies where appropriate. Additionally, educating farmers about the signs of infection in both birds and pigs can help catch outbreaks early.
Editor: It sounds like there’s a lot of work ahead. What role do health organizations play in monitoring and responding to such cases?
Dr. Carter: Health organizations and agencies like the CDC and USDA are vital. They conduct surveillance, research, and provide guidelines for best practices. Collaboration with global health organizations is also crucial since viruses don’t recognize borders.
Editor: Given the current situation, should the public be concerned about H5N1 in pigs?
Dr. Carter: While the risk to the general public is currently low, vigilance is key. It’s important to monitor the situation. Awareness and preparedness can help mitigate any future risks, should the virus’s behavior change.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for these insights. We’re clearly at a pivotal moment in understanding avian influenza.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss such an important issue. Awareness is the first step toward effective management and prevention.
Editor: Absolutely. We’ll continue to follow this story closely. Thanks again for your time.