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World's First Case of H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Sheep in England

The virus was detected during routine surveillance on a Yorkshire farm, with no further infections found, and experts emphasize the low risk to the public and livestock.

Test tubes are seen labelled "Bird Flu" words in this illustration taken, June 10, 2024. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
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Overview

  • A single sheep in Yorkshire, England, tested positive for H5N1 bird flu, marking the first known case of the virus in sheep globally.
  • The infected sheep was culled, and no additional infections were detected in the remaining flock after extensive testing.
  • The detection occurred on a farm where H5N1 had previously been found in captive birds, highlighting the virus's cross-species transmission potential.
  • Authorities stress that the risk to the public and livestock remains very low, with strict biosecurity measures in place to prevent further spread.
  • Experts continue to monitor the virus closely due to concerns about its adaptation to mammals and potential implications for human health.