…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed the detection of bird flu in two poultry workers in England.
However, there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
The cases are believed to be connected to the workers’ exposure to sick birds on a specific poultry farm where they had recently worked.
Both individuals did not display any symptoms of infection and were identified through routine asymptomatic screening.
H5 Virus Detected, Further Sequencing Underway
The UKHSA has reported the presence of the H5 virus in the two affected workers, although additional sequencing will be conducted for more detailed analysis.
The agency has initiated a testing program for workers who come into contact with birds infected with avian flu.
Investigation and Precautionary Measures
The first case was identified through a nasal swab, indicating possible inhalation of the virus by the worker.
The second case is more complex, and it is yet to be determined whether the person has experienced a genuine infection or if they were exposed to the virus at work through inhalation.
Ongoing investigations are being carried out, and precautionary contact tracing has been initiated for the second individual.
Both workers have since tested negative, and there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission.
Low Risk to Human Health, Continued Vigilance
The UKHSA emphasizes that these cases do not alter the low risk posed to the general population in terms of human health.
Professor Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at the UKHSA, highlights that current evidence suggests avian influenza viruses do not easily spread to humans.
However, close contact with infected birds can result in transmission.
The agency remains watchful for any potential changes in risk as viruses evolve.
It is crucial for people to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to follow reporting guidelines provided by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Bird Flu and Surveillance Measures
Bird flu is a well-known infectious disease affecting both poultry and wild birds.
Cases have also been observed in various other animals such as seals, otters, wild dogs, and foxes, both in the UK and globally.
The H5N1 virus currently represents the most prevalent strain in circulation.
The UKHSA maintains an active surveillance program, contacting individuals at the highest risk of exposure to infected birds daily to monitor any symptom development.
As part of the asymptomatic surveillance initiative, poultry workers are asked to undergo nose and throat swabs to check for flu during the 10-day period following exposure.
In some cases, finger prick blood tests may be conducted to detect antibodies against avian flu.
Individuals in contact with bird flu patients may also undergo testing and could be offered antiviral drugs for self-protection and to minimize the risk of transmission.