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BBC Inside Science
The rising threat of bird flu
Jan 9, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Lizzie Gibney, a Senior Physics Reporter at Nature, dives into the complexities of antimatter transport. The experts also tackle the alarming rise of H5N1 bird flu, with discussions on its mutations and potential for human transmission. They reflect on the delicate balance between humans and polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba, and explore the remarkable migratory journeys of animals. This blend of virology, conservation, and cutting-edge physics makes for a captivating listen!
28:08
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Quick takeaways
- The significant increase in human cases of H5N1 bird flu indicates a worrying potential for the virus to adapt for human transmission.
- Innovative technologies like radar systems in Churchill, Manitoba showcase human ingenuity in mitigating polar bear encounters driven by climate change.
Deep dives
Surveillance of H5N1 Bird Flu
H5N1 avian influenza is increasingly being monitored as a potential pandemic threat, particularly after recent outbreaks in livestock and rising human cases. The virus's spread across the globe, initially through poultry and wild birds, has drawn attention due to confirmed cases escalating in the U.S. Reports indicate that there have been 55 confirmed human cases this year, a significant increase from only one prior case. Experts are particularly concerned about asymptomatic infections, as many dairy farm workers showed antibodies to H5N1 without having reported symptoms, indicating that the actual number of infections could be greater than officially recorded.
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Discover
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