Experts Warn of Growing Bird Flu Threat to Humans and Animals

The avian flu is spreading among livestock and wildlife, raising fears of potential human transmission and pandemic risks.

The H5N1 bird flu virus has infected millions of birds and livestock, with 58 human cases reported in the U.S., mostly among farm workers exposed to infected animals.
Concerns are growing over the virus's potential to mutate, especially through genetic reassortment with seasonal flu, which could enable human-to-human transmission.
Household pets, including cats and dogs, are at risk of infection, likely through contact with contaminated sources such as raw milk or infected wildlife.
Large-scale livestock farming and climate-related changes, such as altered bird migration patterns, are creating conditions that facilitate the virus's spread and mutation.
Experts emphasize the importance of preventive measures, including government action to protect farm workers, improve testing, and reduce the likelihood of future pandemics.