Avian influenza was the first in the world to be detected in sheep, British experts have announced, but they highlight the risks of livestock, leaving the general public low.
The H5N1 virus was detected in a single animal in Yorkshire, England after routine testing, which was performed because the flock was held where the flock was previously discovered in birds. The other sheep in the flock were not found to be infected.
The infected animals have since been culled, and UK veterinarians point out strict biosecurity measures are being implemented to prevent further spread of the disease.
“While the risk to livestock remains low, we will ensure that all animal owners are well-suited to ensure sophisticated cleanliness and urge animal and plant health agencies to report any signs of infection immediately,” Christine Middlemis said.
Avian influenza can cause severe illness, including pneumonia and even death. Experts can carefully track changes in the H5N1 virus, as they can cause a human pandemic.
The US is a center for disease control and prevention accusations, but there is no evidence that H5N1 travels to humans from humans, but the virus has been detected in a wide range of animals other than birds, including cats, foxes, otters, bush dogs and pigs, and experts say the new outbreak is endemic in U.S. cows.
The appearance of H5N1 in cattle was a shock to scientists, considering that such animals were previously thought not to be able to easily infect the virus.
H5N1 has also been found in humans, but in such cases it is mainly found in dairy and poultry workers. The most recent case in the UK was reported in January in a farm worker known to have had contact with many infected birds.
“We are pleased to announce that we are a leader in emerging infectious diseases at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). “We continue to see worldwide that mammals can be infected with avian influenza A (H5N1). However, current evidence suggests that the avian influenza virus we see is more likely to circulate around the world.
Chand added that the UKHSA will be prepared for detection of human viruses and will respond quickly to the NHS and other partners if necessary.
“We are committed to providing a range of services to our food standards,” said Robin May, Chief Scientific Advisor for the Food Standards Agency. [the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs]UKHSA and food standards after the discovery of avian influenza virus in UK sheep.
“We have remained our advice that avian flu poses a very low food safety risk to UK consumers, as the H5N1 virus is not normally transmitted through food.”
