Experts Warn of Bird Flu Pandemic Risk: Urgent Call for Eco-Friendly Biosecurity Measures on US Farms

Leading health experts across the U.S. are sounding the alarm as bird flu (H5N1) outbreaks continue to escalate, posing a growing pandemic threat. With nearly 1,000 U.S. dairy cow herds already affected and over 70 confirmed human cases—including the country’s first bird flu-related death—the risk of widespread transmission is increasing rapidly.

Health officials warn that without urgent action, America could face another pandemic. The current strain of avian influenza has already shown signs of spreading to mammals, including humans, and experts stress the importance of implementing sustainable farming practices and green biosecurity measures to help curb its impact.

In the UK, bird flu has infected seven people since 2021, and alarmingly, the world’s first confirmed case of H5N1 in sheep was detected on a Yorkshire farm earlier this year. Specialists emphasize the virus’s potential for cross-species spillover, raising global concern.

The Global Virus Network (GVN) recently issued a critical alert, urging enhanced efforts to monitor transmission and protect both public health and the environment. The U.S. poultry industry, they warn, is particularly vulnerable, and sustainable containment strategies must be prioritized.

Dr. Marc Johnson, a University of Missouri virologist, voiced concern on social media, stating that the virus is “trying really hard” to become a pandemic, highlighting the urgency of proactive, science-backed interventions.

Bird flu symptoms in humans typically resemble seasonal flu, including sore throat, cough, fatigue, and muscle aches. However, severe respiratory illness and high fever can also occur, particularly in vulnerable individuals. Accurate diagnosis requires laboratory testing, as symptoms alone are insufficient to confirm infection.

Swabs from the nose, throat, or even eyes are used for diagnosis, and testing is most reliable within the first few days of illness. Critically ill patients may need lower respiratory samples for accurate detection.

In January, the U.S. confirmed its first fatal human case in Louisiana, involving a person over 65 with underlying conditions who had contact with infected backyard poultry. Genetic sequencing indicated the virus may have mutated inside the body, potentially increasing its severity.

Meanwhile, California has declared a state of emergency due to the rapid spread of H5N1 among dairy cattle—over 600 herds have been affected since August, with nearly half of those cases emerging within 30 days.

In Canada, a teenager remains in critical condition after contracting the virus in November. The source of infection remains unknown, although animal contacts tested negative.

Public health experts in the UK and U.S. continue to monitor the virus closely. While current public risk is considered low, scientists like Professor Paul Hunter of the University of East Anglia caution that further mutations could increase the threat to humans.

Importantly, bird flu is not transmitted through properly cooked poultry or game meat, as the virus is heat-sensitive. However, the primary risk lies in direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments—underscoring the need for eco-conscious hygiene practices and public education campaigns.

Key Takeaways for Green Public Health:
Support sustainable, biosecure farming to reduce virus transmission risks.

Avoid contact with sick or dead birds, especially in backyard flocks or wildlife.

Stay informed through verified public health resources.

Promote eco-health awareness as part of a broader pandemic prevention strategy.

As global health challenges continue to intersect with environmental issues, green health initiatives and responsible agricultural practices are essential to preventing the next outbreak from becoming a global crisis.