Avian flu, outbreaks on farms in US and Italy

If confirmed, new cases of bird flu will lead to a further increase in the number of infected people in the US (in California it has recently risen to 11). The first four documented cases of H5N1 avian influenza in humans were identified in Washington state. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are awaiting confirmation of these cases. A recent report by the California Department of Public Health indicated the presence of five more potential cases of avian influenza A/H5N1 among agricultural workers. In Italy, cases are confined to two farms with about 100,000 turkeys in the Cremasque area. The veterinary health authorities in the Po Valley have initiated the necessary containment measures, stating that food safety is guaranteed. There are currently no human infections with the avian influenza A(H7N7) and A(H9N2) viruses in Italy. Available evidence indicates that the risk to the general population remains low. Moreover, there is only anecdotal evidence to suggest that the virus can be transmitted from animals to humans. This point has been emphasised by the relevant health authorities.