The recent emergence of H5N9 avian influenza in the U.S. has sparked concern among public health experts, given its connection with the ongoing H5N1 outbreaks. Michael Osterholm emphasized the unprecedented nature of current outbreaks attributed to the vast number of migrating waterfowl acting as hosts. H5N9, a hybrid strain involving components from H5N1, H7N9, and H9N2, is not typically seen in poultry, and its ability to infect humans remains unassessed. Experts stress the importance of monitoring and understanding the risks posed by this virus.
In late January, scientists at the World Organization for Animal Health reported the first cases of H5N9 avian influenza in the U.S., raising health concerns.
We've never seen a global spread of avian influenza virus like this," says Michael Osterholm, highlighting the unprecedented number of poultry outbreaks due to H5N1.
H5N9 is not commonly seen in poultry and is a combination of H5N1, H7N9, and H9N2, necessitating an assessment of its potential to infect humans.
The virus is common in the environment and is blowing around, leading to outbreaks in poultry operations unlike what we've seen before.
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