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The risk that avian influenza viruses will adapt better to humans is increasing. Rapid detection of genetic changes in these types of viruses and rapid sharing of data is therefore ‘essential’, states the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in a joint advisory report.
Scientists from the health and safety bodies have so far come across 34 genetic mutations that may give avian influenza a greater chance of infecting humans. This has happened sporadically in recent years, often with fatal consequences.
The virus cannot yet be transmitted from human to human. However, health experts have long pointed out that this could change in the near future. ECDC and EFSA have advised governments to make plans now, in case this should happen. Further mutations of the virus must also be closely monitored.
No limits
Avian influenza is no longer limited to birds alone. The list of mammals that have contracted the virus is now long and also includes pets and farm animals. In European countries, the virus has been found in cats, dogs, mink, foxes, and raccoon dogs, while in the US, dairy cows, goats, and alpacas have also been confirmed to have been infected.
Another risk is that bird flu viruses mix with other viruses. According to scientists, risks also increase if people and animals come into contact with each other more often. This can happen, for example, in intensive livestock farming, but deforestation, urbanization, and global trade also increase the chance that the virus could one day become a major problem for humanity.
Source: Online/GFMM
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