Experts claim there is very little risk to the population from the H5N1 virus, which was discovered in a single animal in Yorkshire.
In England, the first-ever instance of avian flu in sheep was discovered
UK specialists have reported the first-ever detection of bird flu in sheep worldwide, although they emphasize that there is no risk to animals or the people.
Because the flock was housed on a site where avian influenza had previously been discovered in birds, regular testing was conducted in Yorkshire, England, and the H5N1 virus was confirmed in one animal. There were no additional sick sheep in the group.
In England, the first-ever instance of avian flu in sheep was discovered
Strict biosecurity precautions have been put in place to stop the disease from spreading further, according to the UK’s chief veterinary officer, and the affected animal has subsequently been put down.
Although there is still little risk to animals, Christine Middle miss urged all animal owners to maintain strict hygiene and notify the Animal and Plant Health Agency right once if they see any symptoms of infection.
In England, the first-ever instance of avian flu in sheep was discovered
Experts are closely monitoring variations in the H5N1 virus because of concerns that it might start a human pandemic. Bird flu can cause serious disease, including pneumonia, and even death.
Although there is no proof that H5N1 can spread from person to person, the virus has been found in a variety of animals besides birds, such as cats, foxes, otters, bush dogs, and pigs. Experts claim that a new strain of the virus is endemic in US dairy cows.
Scientists have been shocked by the discovery of H5N1 in cows since they previously believed that the virus could not infect such animals.
In England, the first-ever instance of avian flu in sheep was discovered
Humans have also contracted H5N1, albeit these infections have mostly affected dairy and poultry workers. A farm worker who is believed to have come into touch with several infected birds was the subject of the most recent case in the United Kingdom, which was reported in January.
The UK Health Security Agency’s (UKHSA) emerging infection head, Dr. Meera Chand, stated: “We continue to find that animals can be infected with avian influenza A (H5N1).” But according to recent data, the avian influenza viruses that are now spreading throughout the world are difficult for humans to contract, and there is still very little chance that the general population will contract avian flu.
In England, the first-ever instance of avian flu in sheep was discovered
According to Chand, UKHSA was ready to identify the virus in humans and would act quickly in collaboration with the NHS and other partners if necessary.
“We are working extremely closely with [the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs], UKHSA, and Food Standards Scotland in light of the detection of avian influenza virus in a sheep in the UK,” stated Robin May, the Food Standards Agency’s principal scientific adviser.
Since the H5N1 virus is not often spread through food, we continue to advise that bird flu presents a very low risk to food safety for people in the UK.
