Increased human infection risk:- Argentina’s animal health authorities have reported dead sea lions in multiple locations along the country’s Atlantic coast. This occurrence is a result of bird flu, according to officials. The global outbreak of bird flu has affected numerous mammals, causing concern that the virus may spread more easily among humans. The incidents of dead sea lions were recently reported by Argentina’s animal health authorities, spanning from south of the capital Buenos Aires to Santa Cruz near the southern tip of the continent.
Increased human infection risk?
A statement from a Patagonian environmental authority revealed that 50 dead specimens have been recently counted with symptoms consistent with avian influenza. The authorities have requested the public to avoid beaches along Argentina’s roughly 5,000-kilometer coastline where cases have been reported. As per the news agency AFP, this is an effort to control the spread of avian flu. It is important to take precautionary measures and follow guidelines laid down by the authorities to prevent further transmission of the virus.
Sea lions, seals & walruses Dead Report
The H5N1 bird flu virus has caused the largest outbreak ever seen in South America, afflicting both bird populations and marine mammals such as seals and walruses. Earlier this year, hundreds of sea lions were reported dead in Peru due to the virus. The bird flu typically causes seasonal outbreaks but since 2021 cases have surfaced throughout the year. Experts warn that the spread of the virus could have devastating effects on wildlife populations and call for increased monitoring and preventive measures to curb its spread.
Risk factors for Humans
While there is currently no cure for avian influenza, which can be transmitted between wild birds and also affect domesticated poultry, it is uncommon for these viruses to infect humans. However, there have been occasional instances of human infection. Furthermore, the recent outbreak has resulted in the infection of various mammal species including minks and cats. In July, the World Health Organization cautioned that this situation could potentially facilitate the adaptation of the virus to more easily infect humans.
WHO Update About Bird flu kills scores
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), certain mammals can serve as mixing vessels for influenza viruses. This phenomenon can lead to the emergence of new, potentially more harmful viruses that could affect both animals and humans. It is important to monitor and understand these potential sources of virus transmission in order to prevent outbreaks and protect public health. The WHO recommends regular surveillance of animal populations to detect any signs of emerging viruses and take appropriate measures to contain them before they spread.
