The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that Washington, Kentucky, and Montana have reported cases of avian flu in mammals this year, raising concerns about the potential spread to humans. The virus, also known as H5N1, has previously been common among wild birds and poultry, but its expansion to mammals has sparked worries among citizens.

According to the USDA, Kentucky detected the virus in a raccoon, while Washington and Montana found it in three striped skunks and a mountain lion, respectively. The agency emphasizes that H5N1 can cause severe illness and even death in some cases.

Dr. Chris Walzer from the Wildlife Conservation Society expressed his concerns, stating, "This avian influenza outbreak has been one of the largest threats to wildlife globally. We just can't wait for it to hit human populations." He called for improved disease tracking to protect humans from the virus, which is evolving and accumulating "new traits that could create a problem for us humans."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised those working in poultry farms to take precautions as they may be at a higher risk of contracting avian flu. The CDC's warning reflects the need to be vigilant and ready to respond to any potential outbreak.

In a recent study, scientists have discovered the presence of the avian flu virus in marine species along the Atlantic coast of South America. Brain samples from dead sea lions in an impacted rookery in Argentina revealed that all samples, including sea lions, fur seals, and terns, tested positive for the virus. This raises concerns about the potential spread of the virus to humans.

Agustina Rimondi, a virologist from the National Institute of Agricultural Technology in Argentina, stated, "This confirms that while the virus may have adapted to marine mammals, it still has the ability to infect birds." The virologist described the situation as a multi-species outbreak.

The presence of avian flu in mammals and its spread to marine animals is alarming, as it poses a higher risk for potential transmission to humans. With over 82 million animals affected in 48 states, the outbreak has already had a significant impact on the poultry industry in California, leading to record-high egg prices.

While the current danger is considered to be low, it is crucial for authorities to intensify disease tracking efforts and implement necessary precautions. The health and safety of both humans and animal populations remain at stake in the face of the avian flu threat.