The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for urgent action to track bird flu after confirming the first human case involving a child in the U.S. this week. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s pandemic preparedness chief, warned: \"Stronger surveillance in animals—wild birds, poultry, even dairy cattle—is critical to understanding this evolving threat.\" 🌍🔬
Why Now?
H5N1, the virus behind bird flu, isn’t new—it’s been around since 1996. But since 2020, outbreaks in birds have surged *exponentially*, spilling over to mammals like seals and foxes. While human cases remain rare and mostly mild, the spike in animal infections has scientists on edge. Think of it like a real-life pandemic thriller, but with more chickens. 🐔
What’s Next?
Over 80 million poultry have died globally from the virus since 2020. Wild birds are also spreading it across continents, making containment tricky. WHO stresses: Preventing outbreaks in animals is the best way to protect humans. Stay tuned—this story’s still unfolding. 🚨
