H7N9 Bird Flu Hits U.S.: 47,654 Chickens Culled in Mississippi; Human Fatality Rate Over 40%

The United States has reported its first outbreak of H7N9 bird flu since 2017, affecting a commercial chicken flock in Mississippi. This development comes as health officials already grapple with the H5N1 strain that has infected dairy cows and one human in the U.S.

Key Details

The outbreak occurred on a Mississippi poultry farm with 47,654 commercial broiler breeder chickens, according to the World Animal Health Organisation. Officials have begun depopulating the affected flock to prevent further spread.

“Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H7N9 of North American wild bird lineage was detected in a commercial broiler breeder chicken flock in Mississippi. Depopulation of the affected flock is in progress,” states the official report.

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and state health officials are conducting epidemiological investigations and enhanced surveillance in response to the detection.

H7N9 vs. H5N1: Understanding the Threat

While H5N1 has caused widespread damage to poultry flocks recently, the H7N9 strain presents a potentially greater human health risk. According to the World Health Organisation, H7N9 has killed nearly 40% of infected humans since its discovery in 2013.

This high mortality rate makes the current outbreak particularly concerning for public health experts watching for potential pandemic threats.

Global Context

Bird flu outbreaks have forced the culling of hundreds of millions of poultry globally, disrupting supply chains and contributing to higher food prices. The recent spread to mammals, including dairy cows in the U.S., has heightened concerns about the virus’s potential to mutate and pose a greater risk to humans.

The current situation requires careful monitoring, particularly since both major strains (H5N1 and now H7N9) are active in the United States simultaneously.

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Pandemic Concerns

The virus’s ability to spread to mammals raises concerns about its pandemic potential. Experts particularly worry about genetic reassortment—when different flu strains exchange genetic material—which could increase transmissibility between humans.

While human-to-human transmission of H7N9 remains rare, health authorities emphasize the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures, especially among those who work closely with poultry or in food production.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is H7N9 bird flu and how dangerous is it to humans? +

H7N9 is a strain of avian influenza that has a notably high mortality rate in humans, killing nearly 40% of those infected since its discovery in 2013. While transmission to humans is not common, when it does occur, it can be severe and potentially fatal.

How is this outbreak different from the H5N1 bird flu already circulating? +

While H5N1 has caused more widespread damage to poultry and recently infected dairy cows and one person in the U.S., H7N9 has historically shown a higher mortality rate in humans (approximately 40%) according to the World Health Organisation. Both strains are highly pathogenic but present different risk profiles.

Can H7N9 bird flu spread from person to person? +

Human-to-human transmission of H7N9 is rare. Most human infections have occurred after exposure to infected poultry or contaminated environments. However, health officials remain concerned about the virus potentially mutating to become more easily transmissible between humans.

What measures are being taken to contain the outbreak? +

The USDA and state health officials are depopulating the affected flock of 47,654 birds, conducting epidemiological investigations, and implementing enhanced surveillance to prevent further spread.

Should consumers be concerned about poultry product safety? +

Properly handling and cooking poultry products reduces risks associated with avian influenza. The current outbreak is being monitored by health authorities, and standard food safety practices are recommended.

What are the economic implications of this outbreak? +

Bird flu outbreaks typically disrupt poultry supply chains and can lead to higher egg and poultry prices. The economic impact of this specific outbreak will depend on whether it remains contained or spreads to additional farms. Previous outbreaks have led to significant economic losses in the poultry industry.

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