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CDC ends emergency response to H5N1 bird flu

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Original Story by CNN
July 7, 2025
CDC ends emergency response to H5N1 bird flu

Context:

The CDC has concluded its emergency response to the H5N1 bird flu due to a significant decline in cases and no human infections reported since February 2025. Surveillance and response activities for H5N1 will now be managed through the CDC's regular influenza division. Dr. Nirav Shah, formerly of the CDC, emphasized that the decision was based on the absence of recent human cases, allowing resources to be reallocated while retaining the ability to quickly respond if necessary. Since its identification in the late 1990s, H5N1 has caused global outbreaks, affecting millions of birds and spreading to mammals across numerous countries. Although the current risk is low, the CDC remains vigilant, as the virus has shown seasonal patterns with potential undetected mild cases due to changes in federal health monitoring.

Dive Deeper:

  • The CDC deactivated its emergency response to the H5N1 bird flu on July 2, 2025, as the number of animal infections decreased and no human cases have occurred since February 2025. This decision marks a shift back to standard program activities, though monitoring and readiness efforts continue.

  • Dr. Nirav Shah, who recently left his role as CDC principal deputy director, approved the decision, noting that the absence of recent human cases removed the necessity for an intense ongoing emergency response. He assured that the agency is prepared to increase response efforts swiftly if the situation changes.

  • The H5N1 virus, first detected in the late 1990s, has consistently caused outbreaks worldwide. Since 2022, it has impacted nearly 175 million birds in the US, affecting wild birds, commercial, and backyard flocks, and has infected numerous mammal species across over 100 countries.

  • In 2024, the virus posed a threat to the US dairy industry after infecting dairy cattle, spreading to over 1,000 herds in 17 states. Despite this spread, the number of human cases in the United States has remained relatively low, with 70 cases and one fatality reported.

  • Reports of H5N1 cases have slowed, but experts caution that the virus exhibits seasonal patterns, typically peaking in the fall or early winter. Despite changes in federal health agency operations, serious cases are unlikely to go undetected, though some mild cases might.

  • The US Department of Health and Human Services has also canceled a $590 million contract with Moderna for a bird flu vaccine, aligning with the reduced perceived threat level.

  • The CDC continues to classify the current public health risk from H5N1 as low, but maintains readiness to adapt its response should the situation escalate, ensuring the health and safety of the public remain a priority.

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