Bird flu cases are still rising in the U.S. as the virus continues to devastate poultry farms. More than 145 million chickens, ducks, turkeys and other fowl have been slaughtered across the United States since the outbreak began in January 2022. As for humans, 67 people have been infected, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

First U.S. detection of virulent H5N9 strain, at a California duck farm, draws scrutiny as evidence of genetic reassortment that could trigger human outbreaks.

H5N9 is a rare subtype of the influenza A virus that can cause highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu. It's a reassortment strain that originated from the H5N1, H7N9, and H9N2 subtypes.

The number of bird flu cases in Central Massachusetts is relatively low, compared to a swath of the state that runs from Greater Boston to Southeastern Massachusetts. That message was delivered Wednesday during a virtual update from state health officials on the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bird flu outbreaks have impacted poultry in 51 states, while the virus has been detected in dairy cows across 16 states.

The ongoing bird flu outbreak is driving up egg prices, which had led to a nationwide shortage. When buying eggs, choose only refrigerated eggs and refrigerate them immediately once they are brought home.

By India Edwards HealthDay Reporter WEDNESDAY, Jan. 29, 2025 (HealthDay News) -- A commercial turkey flock in North Carolina has tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu,

State officials are working with partners to test suspected cases and collaborating with municipalities to safely dispose of dead birds." The post Bird flu now considered ‘widespread’ in Mass., officials say appeared first on Boston.

Scientists say the temporary freeze on communications from federal officials creates a troubling blind spot for those tracking the virus.