Reports from the World Health Organisation (WHO) reveal a surge in dairy herd cases of avian influenza to 92 across 12 countries. The number of human cases has risen from one to three, with the tally of those under surveillance doubling to 500.
Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, addressed the media in an online conference on Wednesday. He highlighted that since 2003, there have been 893 reported cases of H5N1 in humans, with 11 cases recorded in 2024; five in Cambodia, three in the U.S., and one each in Australia, China, and Vietnam.
Dr Tedros noted that, at present, the avian flu virus shows no indications of being capable of easy transmission among humans.
“That remains the case, which is why, at this time, WHO continues to assess the risk to public health as low. In recent years, H5N1 has spread widely among wild birds, poultry, land and marine mammals on several continents,” he said.
“Follow-up, testing and care of people exposed to the virus should continue systematically. Early medical care and support, and thorough and timely investigation of every human infection is essential to evaluate and interrupt potential onward transmission between humans,” he added.
He mentioned that the WHO is overseeing various avian flu viruses in humans via the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System. He added that surveillance of different flu viruses among animals worldwide must also be intensified to promptly detect any modifications to the virus that could pose a threat to humans.
“These systems are only as good as the timely detection and the sharing of viruses and information. Collaboration, communication and information sharing between the animal and human health sectors is essential in all countries. This is the meaning of one health,” he said.
Infections of the avian influenza virus in humans can lead to a spectrum of illnesses, from mild upper respiratory tract infections to more severe conditions that can be fatal. Conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal symptoms, encephalitis, and encephalopathy have also been documented.