news 
Bird Flu Spreads to Pet Birds in Vermont
Federal and state officials have issued a warning to animal owners after a recent outbreak of H5N1 bird flu among pet birds in Vermont. According to reports, one bird in the affected flock died before further testing confirmed the presence of an H5N1 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This was followed by additional deaths within the two dozen “non-poultry” birds in the same backyard flock.
The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) has taken swift action to contain the outbreak, quarantining the affected birds before ultimately euthanizing the remaining birds in the flock. The agency is urging all pet bird owners to take immediate precautions to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.
This latest development comes as part of a larger global trend, with H5N1 outbreaks reported in various countries around the world. Experts have warned that this particular strain has the potential to be transmitted not only between birds but also potentially from birds to humans and other animals.
In related news, researchers have discovered that raw pet food may pose a significant risk factor for contracting H5N1 bird flu. A recent study found that dairy farmers working near infected cows often contract the virus without even realizing it, often resulting in undiagnosed cases.
As a result of this growing health concern, many grocery stores across the country have been experiencing egg shortages recently due to widespread farm closures and restrictions on poultry products. This shortage has led to significant disruptions in the food supply chain, causing prices to skyrocket and availability to dwindle.
In other news, researchers have found that H5N1 bird flu can linger on refrigerated raw milk for up to five days, further highlighting the risks associated with consuming unpasteurized dairy products.
It is essential that pet owners take immediate action to protect their birds from this highly contagious disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises taking a range of precautions including thoroughly washing hands before and after handling pets or their food, avoiding close contact with infected animals, and ensuring all poultry-related surfaces are regularly sanitized.
This latest outbreak serves as a stark reminder that the risk posed by H5N1 bird flu is not limited to birds alone but also extends to humans and other animals.
Source: gizmodo.com
