Bird Flu Wave - Many Human Cases Go Undiscovered in the US

Researchers Conclude True Number of Human Infections Could Be Much Higher Than Reported

A recent study published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases suggests that the true number of human infections with the bird flu may be much higher than previously thought. The study found that many cases of the bird flu in humans go undetected because they are mistaken for other respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold or flu.

The study was conducted by researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The researchers analyzed data from a national surveillance system that tracks laboratory-confirmed cases of the bird flu in humans. They found that between 2009 and 2016, there were 1,041 laboratory-confirmed cases of the bird flu in humans in the US.

However, the researchers believe that the true number of human infections with the bird flu is much higher than this. They estimate that for every laboratory-confirmed case of the bird flu, there are 10 to 100 cases that go undetected.

Undetected Cases Could Lead to More Severe Outbreaks

The researchers are concerned that the undetected cases of the bird flu could lead to more severe outbreaks of the disease in the future. This is because people who are infected with the bird flu but do not know it can continue to spread the virus to others.

The researchers recommend that doctors be more vigilant in testing patients for the bird flu, even if they do not have any symptoms. They also recommend that people who have been exposed to birds or poultry get vaccinated against the bird flu.

Symptoms of the Bird Flu

The symptoms of the bird flu can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In mild cases, the symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches.

In more severe cases, the symptoms can include pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death. The bird flu can be a serious illness, but it can be prevented by taking the following precautions:

• Avoid contact with birds and poultry.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Get vaccinated against the bird flu.

If you think you may have the bird flu, see your doctor immediately.