Denver, CO – Dr. Jenna Guthmiller, a biologist at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology at The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, is raising concerns about the emerging threat of avian influenza to both animals and humans. She has been conducting research on the virus for years and believes that deadly strains of the virus are spreading uncontrollably.
Guthmiller recently highlighted three troubling developments related to avian influenza. Firstly, a human in Mexico succumbed to the H5N2 subtype, marking the first known fatality from this particular strain. This is significant as H5N2 and H5N1 belong to the same family of influenza A viruses, with H5N1 previously infecting humans but H5N2 making its first appearance in humans.
The second alarming development was the detection of H5N1 in field mice in New Mexico, close to infected cattle herds. Guthmiller expressed surprise at this finding, as it is uncommon for mice in nature to be infected with influenza viruses. Lastly, a new case emerged in Iowa, with a herd being infected with H5N1.
Guthmiller’s research indicates a potential risk of the virus spreading to humans, particularly after it had spread to dairy cows. Although no confirmed cases of human-to-human transmission have been reported, Guthmiller remains concerned about the possibility of the virus evolving and adapting to infect humans.
She emphasized the need for control measures to prevent further outbreaks and highlighted the importance of understanding the extent of the current outbreak. Guthmiller expressed genuine concern about the virus’s potential impact on humans, especially if it were to lead to human-to-human transmission.
Unlike Covid-19, H5N1 has not resulted in any confirmed cases of human-to-human transmission. However, Guthmiller warned that if the virus continues to spread and adapt, the likelihood of it infecting humans could increase. She stressed the importance of getting the outbreak under control to prevent a potential pandemic.
Overall, Guthmiller’s research underscores the urgent need for vigilance in monitoring and controlling avian influenza to prevent its further spread and potential impact on human health.