**Alarming H5N1 Bird Flu Threat: Experts Urge Immediate Action**

Bird flu (H5N1) is rapidly spreading across U.S. farms, now affecting over **1,000 dairy cow herds** and **70 humans**, including the **first confirmed death**. “This virus might not go pandemic, but it is really trying hard,” warned virologist Dr. Marc Johnson.
Since 2022, over **168 million poultry** have been lost, pushing egg prices up. Experts fear the virus could mutate and **jump between humans**, raising pandemic concerns. “Strengthening surveillance at animal-human interfaces is crucial,” said Dr. Ab Osterhaus from the Global Virus Network (GVN).

The GVN urges governments to improve **biosecurity**, educate the public, and consider **vaccination strategies**. Dr. Peter Palese emphasized: “Initiatives should focus on enhancing biosecurity measures… and educating the public.”

Despite the threat, the U.S. response has been criticized as too slow. Testing was mostly voluntary until late 2024, and raw milk samples only recently became required. Wastewater samples in states like **California** show 80% virus presence.
Bird flu is now found in **over 400 non-bird species** and spreading in pigs, seals, and foxes. Although there’s **no confirmed human-to-human transmission**, experts stress preparedness, noting that **20 million vaccines are stockpiled** and more can be produced if needed.