South Dakota faces a severe outbreak of avian influenza, known as the H5N1 virus, leading to the culling of over 6 million birds across the state. With 114 commercial outbreaks reported, including substantial losses at turkey farms operated by Hutterite colonies, experts warn that the virus’s ability to mutate raises the possibility of a future human pandemic.
While the current risk to the general public remains low, health authorities note that 70 people nationwide have contracted the virus, often linked to direct exposure to infected birds. The alarming genetic adaptability of H5N1 fuels concerns, especially after recent detections in mammals, hinting that the virus could jump species, amplifying risks to human health.
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