Dray
The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed a “rare” human case of avian influenza (A(H5N1)) in England, marking a unique occurrence linked to close contact with infected birds on a farm.
According to the UKHSA, the individual acquired the infection in the West Midlands, where they were exposed to a significant number of infected birds. Despite the confirmed case, health officials have reassured the public that the risk to the general population remains very low.
The affected person has been admitted to a High Consequence Infectious Disease (HCID) unit and is reportedly “well,” according to the agency.
Officials stated that the birds in question were infected with the DI.2 genotype of the A(H5N1) virus, which differs from strains currently circulating among birds and mammals in the United States.
Expert Comments:
- Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at the UKHSA, emphasized that human-to-human transmission of the A(H5N1) strain has not been observed, underscoring the low risk to the public.
- Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer, noted that while avian flu is highly contagious among birds, human infections are exceptionally rare. She stated, “This case is very specific to the circumstances on this farm.”
Containment Measures:
Authorities have acted swiftly to curb the spread of the disease:
- Humane culling of all infected birds.
- Comprehensive cleansing and disinfection of the affected site.
- Enhanced surveillance of commercial farms and backyard flocks as the country sees a rise in avian flu cases.
While this case highlights the importance of biosecurity measures on farms, the UKHSA continues to monitor the situation closely to prevent further infections.
Comments
Loading…