Concerns over the virus’s possible adaptability to humans have been raised after a dairy worker in Nevada tested positive for the H5N1 avian flu version for the first time.
To determine how the illness happened, health officials are currently looking into the worker’s conjunctivitis symptoms, which include red, swollen eyes.
This follows reports that bird flu is spreading among Nevada dairy cattle, a particular strain of which, D1.1, showed an alarming mutation. Experts believe this could make it easier for the virus to move around better and faster among mammals and even humans.
People who are in closer contact with farm animals are at greater risk though, as the Center for Disease Control insists there is still minimal overall risk to the public.
The researchers suggest that the virus could have spread from infected wild birds to dairy cows before infecting people.
Some farms in the affected region have reportedly experienced immense death cases of wild birds before their cattle begin showing symptoms othe f disease.
The alteration in the D1.1 strain is causing virologists to become alarmed. In contrast to earlier strains, this one seems to be changing in ways that might increase its capacity to infect people.
To determine whether more adaptations could raise the threat level, scientists are currently keeping a careful eye on these developments.
According to experts, at present, it has not revealed massive human transmission. They advocate prudence but do not panic even over such a worry.
Still, they place greater importance on constant vigil and prevention in efforts to control epidemic soon.
