Avian influenza is beginning to infect mammals at an accelerated rate and may initiate human-to-human transmission
The global spread of the H5N1 avian influenza branch 2.3.4.4b – and more recently to an increasing number of mammals – raises concerns that future mutations could lead to human-to-human transmission.
"Given the widespread spread of the virus in birds around the world and the increasing number of reports of cases in mammals, including humans, the global H5N1 situation is worrying." WHO official Sylvie Briand said Friday. "WHO takes the risks of this virus seriously and urges all countries to be vigilant."
At least 3,487 South American sea lions were found dead from H5N1 bird flu in seven natural areas, about 3.3 percent of the country's total South American sea lions, five times the number reported in mid-February, the Peruvian government announced Thursday. Meanwhile, at least 63,000 birds have died, including quails, pelicans and parrots, in eight nature reserves in Peru.
In a study last month, Peruvian researchers said: "The observed high mortality rate is worrying; For example, as many as 100 dead individuals are floating together in the sea – an unprecedented observation for this geographic area. "The clinical symptoms of the dying are predominantly neurological symptoms such as tremor, convulsions and paralysis." Meanwhile, South American fur seals, dolphins, sea lions and other mammals have also been found dead in recent weeks. While the researchers can't rule out transmission of the virus between mammals, they say it should be urgently investigated.
According to the latest news, after at least 3,500 sea lions died in Peru, Chile found a second sea lion to die from H5N1 bird flu.
