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In 2024, the H5N1 bird flu virus jumped from wild birds to cows, shocking virus experts. The virus has since spread rapidly through US dairy herds and poultry, infecting other mammals, including 70 Americans, one of whom died. Some experts claim the Biden administration was slow to respond, while the Trump administration laid off scientists.
The virus spreads easily and lingers on milking equipment, infecting workers. Experts fear the virus's pandemic potential, citing its high mortality rate in past outbreaks. Testing was slow to start, and some states still test infrequently. A new strain in cattle has led to more severe disease in some people.
The virus has spread to foxes, goats, pigs, rats, cats, and raccoons. Some studies suggest many human cases go undetected. Experts worry that the virus could evolve into a pandemic strain. A bird flu vaccine exists but is not FDA-licensed, and the Trump administration paused funding for Moderna's vaccine. The USDA's milk testing program has helped slow the spread, but distrust of science and vaccines hinders prevention efforts.