July 15, 2024

WHO warns limited surveillance hampers assessment of H5N1 avian influenza risk

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that limited surveillance of animal and human cases of H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is hindering its ability to assess and manage the global risk posed by the disease, Voice of America reported.

During a news briefing at the agency's headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that the US recently reported a fourth human case following exposure to infected dairy cattle.

The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the patient was a worker on a dairy farm where cows had tested positive for the virus. The individual exhibited limited symptoms, received treatment, and recovered. No human-to-human transmission of the virus was reported.

Tedros also noted that Cambodia reported two cases in children who had contact with sick or dead chickens.

The WHO continues to assess the risk of bird flu to the public as low. However, Tedros emphasised that accurate assessments are challenging due to the limited global surveillance for influenza viruses in animals.

"Understanding how these viruses are spreading and changing in animals is essential for identifying any changes that might increase the risk of outbreaks in humans, or the potential for a pandemic," Tedros said.

He called on all countries to enhance influenza surveillance and reporting in both animals and humans and to share virus samples with the WHO. Tedros also urged that protection measures be provided for farm workers who may be exposed to infected animals.

-      Voice of America