Reuters reported on 1 July that scientists tracking the spread of bird flu have raised concerns about gaps in surveillance, fearing it could lead to a delayed response to a potential new pandemic.
“Since 2020, researchers have monitored a new subtype of H5N1 avian flu in migratory birds. However, its recent spread to 129 dairy herds across 12 US states indicates a shift that could bring the virus closer to human transmissibility.
“The World Health Organization (WHO) maintains that H5N1 poses a low risk to humans due to the lack of evidence for human-to-human transmission. However, tools like existing vaccines and antiviral medications are available if needed.”
Meanwhile, some countries are proactively securing “pre-pandemic” flu vaccines for high-risk groups.