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Yorkshire, England – A significant development in the ongoing avian influenza (bird flu) situation has occurred in the United Kingdom, with the detection of the H5N1 virus in a sheep. This marks the world’s first confirmed case of bird flu in a sheep, prompting increased surveillance and biosecurity measures.
The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency confirmed the detection following routine livestock surveillance on a farm in Yorkshire where a previous outbreak of H5N1 had been identified in captive birds.
Key points:
- First of its kind: This is the first recorded instance of bird flu being detected in a sheep.
- Routine surveillance: The infection was discovered through routine testing of livestock on a farm where bird flu was already present in birds.
- Clinical signs: The infected sheep, a ewe, displayed signs of mastitis. Tests also showed the presence of the H5N1 virus in the animals milk.
- Response: The infected sheep was culled to prevent further spread. Further testing on other sheep at the location showed negative results.
- Public risk: Health officials emphasize that the current risk to the general public remains low.
- Increased vigilance: Livestock keepers are urged to maintain strict biosecurity practices and report any signs of infection.
- Global context: This finding adds to the growing list of mammals susceptible to the H5N1 virus, which has also been detected in dairy cows, foxes, and other mammals.
Officials are closely monitoring the situation, and emphasize that while this discovery raises concerns, current data suggests that the risk of transmission to humans remains low. However, they continue to stress the need for all animal owners to be highly vigilant.
“Globally, we continue to see that mammals can be infected with avian influenza A(H5N1). However, current evidence suggests that the avian influenza viruses we’re seeing circulating around the world do not spread easily to people – and the risk of avian flu to the general public remains very low,” stated Dr. Meera Chand, emerging infection lead at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The UK government has implemented increased surveillance of livestock on premises where avian influenza has been found in birds.
Disclaimer:
- This news article is based on currently available information and may be subject to change as further investigations are conducted.
- While health officials state the risk to the general public is currently low, it is important to stay informed and follow any updated guidance from relevant authorities.
- This information is for general knowledge, and does not constitute medical advice. For medical concerns, please consult a medical professional.
(https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/worlds-first-case-of-bird-flu-in-sheep-found-in-england-heres-what-it-means/articleshow/119440134.cms)
