H5N1 Bird Flu Cases and Deaths Rise in U.S.

The H5N1 avian flu, also known as bird flu, has been detected in various locations, including Jaisalmer, India, where it was confirmed in demoiselle cranes, prompting local precautionary measures. In the United States, a child in San Francisco was reported as the second pediatric bird flu case, and the first death from the virus occurred in Louisiana, which has heightened fears of a potential pandemic. The flu has affected poultry in states such as Arkansas, Delaware, and Maryland, leading to increased biosecurity measures among farmers to prevent economic losses. The Iowa Department of Agriculture has issued warnings to pet owners to keep pets away from potentially infected wildlife and raw foods, as cases have been documented in cats and other animals. Public health and agricultural authorities emphasize the importance of maintaining biosecurity and vigilance to curb the spread of the disease.