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Avian flu has infected dairy cows in more than a dozen states – a microbiologist explains how the virus is spreading
The H5N1 avian flu has spread from birds to dairy cows, causing significant outbreaks and posing risks to farm workers and other animals, though pasteurized milk remains safe.
Jenna Guthmiller, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
The current strain of avian flu, H5N1, is responsible for the culling of millions of domestic birds and has sickened more than a dozen farmworkers in 2024, most recently in Colorado.
The Conversation U.S. asked immunologist and microbiologist Jenna Guthmiller from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus to explain the historical roots of H5N1, its mode of transmission and how to avoid coming into contact with it.
What is H5N1?
H5N1 is a subtype of influenza A viruses. Other commonly known influenza A virus subtypes include H1N1 and H3N2, which cause seasonal outbreaks in humans.
Unlike H1N1 and H3N2, H5N1 largely infects wild birds, with waterfowl such as ducks and geese being the natural reservoirs for H5N1 viruses. Most H5N1 viruses are highly pathogenic avian influenza, meaning spillovers into other bird populations can lead to high mortality rates, including domesticated poultry.
H5N1 viruses were first identified in 1959 due to an outbreak in domesticated chickens in Scotland. In 1996, waterfowl were identified as the natural reservoir for H5N1.
Since its identification, H5N1 viruses have led to four major outbreaks: in 1997, 2003-2005, 2015 and 2021-to-present. The outbreaks in 1997 and 2003-2005 led to substantial spillover to humans.
Since 2003, nearly 900 H5N1 infections in humans have been recorded. Of those infections, more than half were fatal.
Where did H5N1 originate?
The current outbreak of H5N1 started in late 2021 and derives from the virus that caused a major outbreak in 2015.
Since 2021, H5N1 strains have spread to six continents by migratory birds. Spillover to domestic poultry has led to the culling of millions of domestic birds
Researchers have documented the current H5N1 strain in numerous mammals, with it largely affecting aquatic mammals like seals and scavenger mammals. Sporadic spillover to domestic mammals has been recorded, including to minks, goats and alpacas.
In March 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported an outbreak of H5N1 in lactating dairy cows. As of Aug. 27, 192 herds in 13 states have been confirmed H5N1 positive.
Dairy cow-associated H5N1 viruses have since jumped back into wild birds, and recent outbreaks in domestic poultry resembled H5N1 in dairy cows. Between May and July 2024, 13 confirmed H5N1 infections have occurred in humans, with all cases directly linked to dairy farms and poultry culling. https://www.youtube.com/embed/jhKI2Zskplg?wmode=transparent&start=0 The concern is that the virus could evolve to allow human-to-human transmission.
Why did the avian flu become more widespread?
It is unclear why H5N1 has become such a widespread problem. H5N1, like all influenza viruses, rapidly mutates to infect new hosts. However, H5N1 has several features that could increase its host range.
First, H5N1 viruses use a protein called hemagglutinin that allows H5N1 to infect with new hosts.
Second, my research group identified a mutation in H5N1 viruses causing the dairy cow outbreak that allows hemagglutinin to bind to its receptor more efficiently.
Lastly, H5N1 viruses are mutating genes associated with replication and immune evasion that are known to increase the infection of mammals.
Together, these factors could heighten H5N1 transmission and increase H5N1 spillover to mammals.
How is the strain transmitted to dairy cattle?
H5N1 viruses are largely causing infections in the mammary glands of cattle rather than the respiratory tract, which is the main site of infection for other influenza viruses in mammals. Recent studies have shown that the mammary tissue has receptors for H5N1, which could make this tissue susceptible to infection.
Since the infection is largely restricted to the mammary glands, researchers believe that H5N1 is being transmitted to cows by contaminated milk equipment, particularly the milking apparatus that attaches to the cow udders. Transmission across farms is due to infected cattle movement and shared equipment and personnel across dairy farms.
To reduce transmission, in April 2024, the USDA put in testing requirements for when cows are transported across state lines. In addition, Colorado, the state with the greatest number of positive herds, requires weekly testing on farms to identify infected herds.
What are the risks to people and other animals?
H5N1 does not pose a risk to the general public, as this virus is not known to transmit between people. As all known cases were those with direct contact with infected animals, people with occupational exposure to H5N1-infected cows and poultry continue to be at the greatest risk of infection.
People with occupational hazards should be aware of the H5N1 symptoms – similar to those of a cold – such as congestion, sore throat and fatigue, as well as conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye. For more information, see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s webpage on avian influenza in people.
Domestic and wild animals near dairy farms are at high risk of infection. Particularly, barn cats that have been fed raw milk have been reported dead on dairy farms with infected cows, with these animals coming back positive for H5N1.
In addition, spillover of H5N1 to other domesticated farm animals near infected dairy cows has been recorded.
What are the best ways to keep farm workers safe?
Using personal protective equipment, such as goggles and gloves, remains the best way to prevent the transmission of H5N1 to humans and from humans back to animals. People working around poultry or dairy cattle should also be aware of biosecurity measures, such as not wearing the same clothes and boots when traveling from one farm to another.
Is drinking dairy milk a concern?
As long as you are consuming pasteurized milk products, there are no concerns for infections in humans. Pasteurization is very effective at killing any H5N1 virus that ends up in milk.
People should avoid raw or unpasteurized milk, as H5N1 virus has been found at very high levels in raw milk.
Jenna Guthmiller, Assistant Professor of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/
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Hey there, pickleball fans and community members! Welcome back to Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report, where we keep you in the loop about all things pickleball. Today, we’re serving up a controversial topic that’s making waves over at El Quito Park in Saratoga, California. Grab your paddles and a snack as we dive into the noise — and not just the joyful sound of pickleball!
The Pickleball Factor
Thanks to a booming interest during the pandemic, Saratoga recently added two brand-spankin’-new pickleball courts to great fanfare. But what started as a way to enjoy the game has quickly turned into a cacophony that has some locals reconsidering their living arrangements. As reported by Isha Trivedi in the East Bay Times, the sound from the courts has led to complaints from nearby residents about what they describe as a “bombardment of noise.” Even long-time locals like Zack Petersen, who’s enjoyed three decades in the area, are expressing their frustrations. Zack went as far as to say the noise sounds like “shotguns” — yikes!
Check out the article: https://www.mercurynews.com/2024/09/16/pickleballs-bombardment-of-noise-rule-breakers-and-fence-climbers-at-saratoga-courts-lead-to-100000-soundproofing-and-lock-costs-after-neighbor-complaints/
It’s not just the noise that’s causing concern. With no installed lights on the courts, players often bring their own lighting, keeping matches going late into the night, sometimes past midnight. With the city struggling to enforce playtime limits, it’s clear why some residents are feeling overwhelmed.
In response to the uproar, Saratoga’s City Council has earmarked a whopping $100,000 to install soundproofing panels and a new magnetic locking system to keep the courts quieter and more organized. But here’s the catch — Zack fears this might just be a “band-aid” on the real issue. He’s observed that dedicated players have been known to climb over fences to keep the games alive even after the gates are locked. A real pickle indeed!
Despite the pushback from some neighbors, not all pickleball players are brushing off the complaints. Local pickleball ambassador Jason Tseng recognizes the need for soundproofing that works for both players and residents. He pointed out that how the city implements these sound-dampening measures could actually create an echo chamber within the courts, enhancing the noise inside rather than reducing it outside. Double yikes!
So, where does that leave us? With pickleball’s rising popularity, it’s clear something needs to be done to keep the spirit of the game alive while respecting the local community. We’re eager to hear your thoughts!
Do you think pickleball noise is a real issue for local neighborhoods, or is it just part of the game’s charm? Should the city invest in soundproofing and locking systems, or is that a waste of funds? We invite you to share your opinions and experiences in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going and work towards solutions that benefit everyone involved!
Until next time, keep it friendly on the courts and consider your volume levels — your neighbors will thank you! And don’t forget… Let’s Pickle!
—Sleeves
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
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What is an Atlantic Niña? How La Niña’s smaller cousin could affect hurricane season
In August 2024, both La Niña and the lesser-known Atlantic Niña seem to be developing. This rare combination may impact Atlantic hurricane season, potentially reducing risk despite global warming’s influence.
Annalisa Bracco, Georgia Institute of Technology and Zachary Handlos, Georgia Institute of Technology
The North Atlantic Ocean has been running a fever for months, with surface temperatures at or near record highs. But cooling along the equator in both the Atlantic and eastern Pacific may finally be starting to bring some relief, particularly for vulnerable coral reef ecosystems.
This cooling is related to two climate phenomena with similar names: La Niña, which forms in the tropical Pacific, and the less well-known Atlantic Niña.
Both can affect the Atlantic hurricane season. While La Niña tends to bring conditions ideal for Atlantic hurricanes, the less powerful Atlantic Niña has the potential to reduce some of the hurricane risk.
We’re ocean and atmospheric scientists who study this type of climate phenomenon. It’s rare to see both Niñas at the same time, yet in August 2024, both appeared to be developing. Let’s take a closer look at what that means.
La Niña and its cousin, Atlantic Niña
La Niña is part of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, a well-known climate phenomenon that has widespread effects on climate and weather around the world.
During La Niña, sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific dip below normal. Easterly trade winds then strengthen, allowing more cool water to well up along the equator off South America. That cooling affects the atmosphere in ways that reverberate across the planet. Some areas become stormier and others drier during La Niña, and the wind shear that can tear apart Atlantic hurricanes tends to weaken.
La Niña and its warmer opposite, El Niño, oscillate every three to four years or so. https://www.youtube.com/embed/wVlfyhs64IY?wmode=transparent&start=0 La Niña and its opposite, El Niño, explained. NOAA.
A similar climate phenomenon, Atlantic Niña, occurs in the Atlantic Ocean but at a much smaller scale and amplitude. It typically peaks around July or August and tends to have a shorter duration than its Pacific cousin, and much more modest and local impacts. Atlantic Niñas generally have the opposite effect of Atlantic Niños, which tend to reduce rainfall over Africa’s Sahel region and increase rainfall in Brazil and the countries that surround the Gulf of Guinea, such as Ghana, Nigeria and Cameroon.
While much weaker than their Pacific counterpart, Atlantic Niñas can, however, partially counteract La Niñas by weakening summer winds that help drive the upwelling that cools the eastern Pacific.
Why might both happen now?
In July and August 2024, meteorologists noted cooling that suggested an Atlantic Niña might be developing along the equator. The winds at the ocean surface had been weak through most of the summer, and sea surface temperatures there were quite warm until early June, so signs an Atlantic Niña might be emerging were a surprise.
At the same time, waters along the equator in the eastern Pacific were also cooling, with La Niña conditions expected there around October or November.
Getting a Pacific-Atlantic Niña combination is rare but not impossible. It’s like finding two different pendulums that are weakly coupled to swing in opposite directions moving together in time. The combinations of La Niña and Atlantic Niño, or El Niño and Atlantic Niña are more common.
Good news or bad for hurricane season?
An Atlantic Niña may initially suggest good news for those living in hurricane-prone areas.
Cooler than average waters off the coast of Africa can suppress the formation of African easterly waves. These are clusters of thunderstorm activity that can form into tropical disturbances and eventually tropical storms or hurricanes.
Tropical storms draw energy from the process of evaporating water associated with warm sea surface temperatures. So, cooling in the tropical Atlantic could weaken this process. That would leave less energy for thunderstorms, which would reduce the probability of a tropical cyclone forming.
However, NOAA takes all factors into account when it updates its Atlantic hurricane season outlook, released in early August, and it still anticipates an extremely active 2024 season. Tropical storm season typically peaks in early to mid-September.
https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/lcaEc/2
Two reasons are behind the busy forecast: The near record-breaking warm sea surface temperatures in much of the North Atlantic can strengthen hurricanes. And the expected development of a La Niña in the Pacific tends to weaken wind shear – the change in wind speed with height that can tear apart hurricanes. La Niña’s much stronger effects can override any impacts associated with the Atlantic Niña.
Exacerbating the problem: Global warming
The past two years have seen exceptionally high ocean temperatures in the Atlantic and around much of the world’s oceans. The two Niñas are likely to contribute some cooling relief for certain regions, but it may not last long.
In addition to these cycles, the global warming trend caused by rising greenhouse gas emissions is raising the baseline temperatures and can fuel major hurricanes.
Annalisa Bracco, Professor of Ocean and Climate Dynamics, Georgia Institute of Technology and Zachary Handlos, Atmospheric Science Educator, Georgia Institute of Technology
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Senior Pickleball Report
Serve & Sip: Dallas’s Largest Pickleball Entertainment Destination Brings Sport, Social, and Style Together
Alex Menzel announces Serve & Sip Pickleball Club in Dallas for 2025, blending sport, hospitality, and community in a unique venue.
DALLAS, Sept. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Alex Menzel, a community-focused entrepreneur, developer, and SMU alumnus is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of Serve & Sip Pickleball Club, the largest indoor-outdoor pickleball entertainment venue in the heart of Dallas. Scheduled to open in 2025, Serve & Sip is designed to offer a premium, bespoke blend of sport and hospitality, all within a vibrant and meticulously designed environment.
A New Standard in Pickleball and Social Entertainment
Serve & Sip will be a venue where community, connection, and unforgettable experiences come together. Featuring spacious, professional-grade courts, a lively outdoor patio, and an inviting dining experience, Serve & Sip will offer a personalized, high-quality environment where guests can compete on the court, savor handcrafted cocktails, or simply unwind with friends. Our commitment to experiential hospitality will ensure that every visit is exceptional, whether you are a seasoned player or simply looking to enjoy a great time in a welcoming atmosphere.
Built for Today and Designed for Tomorrow
Easily accessible off I-75 (Royal exit) and also nestled at the intersection of three of Dallas’s beloved trails—Serve & Sip is more than just a pickleball venue; it is a destination. Whether you are walking along the White Rock Creek Trail, biking down Cottonwood Creek Trail, or taking in the scenic views from the Northaven Trail Bridge, all roads lead to Serve & Sip.
This unique location positions Serve & Sip as a natural gathering point for patrons, offering a welcoming space where everyone can find something to enjoy. From fun pickleball activities to leisurely gatherings on the outdoor patio, to social events in our thoughtfully designed indoor spaces, Serve & Sip is crafted to cater to a diverse range of interests. Where some venues might focus on simply filling a space with as many courts as possible, Serve & Sip takes a different approach. We believe that the best pickleball experience is about more than just the game—it is about creating a welcoming atmosphere, nurturing a strong sense of community, and fostering a deep sense of belonging through tailored hospitality. Our venue is designed with both today’s needs and tomorrow’s growth in mind, ensuring that Serve & Sip remains a vibrant, inclusive social hub for years to come.
A Vision for Community Impact
Serve & Sip will capitalize on the booming popularity of pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the U.S. with 13.6 million players nationwide and a 33% compound annual growth rate over the last 5 years. Serve & Sip is set to become a vibrant gathering place for the Dallas community, promoting active lifestyles and fostering social connections. The venue’s location along these key trails offers a natural meeting point for community members to gather, play, and relax in an upscale setting. By easing demand for publicly accessible courts and providing a space where people can enjoy both physical activity and social interaction, Serve & Sip is poised to make a lasting impact on the community.
Collaborative Excellence and Strategic Partnerships
The development of Serve & Sip has been driven by collaboration with the city of Dallas, our capital and private investment partners, and award-winning, renowned hospitality designers, ensuring that every detail of the venue contributes to a highly enjoyable experience. As we approach our grand opening in 2025, we continue to engage with like-minded partners who share our vision for creating vibrant community spaces that stand out in today’s entertainment landscape.
About Serve & Sip
Serve & Sip will become Dallas’s premier indoor-outdoor pickleball entertainment venue, offering a unique blend of sport, social engagement, and experiential hospitality. Opening in 2025, the venue will feature professional-grade courts, and a vibrant social atmosphere, making it the ultimate destination for both pickleball enthusiasts and social seekers alike.
SOURCE Serve & Sip Pickleball Club
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
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