Experts urge the Trump administration to take action against the potential threat of a bird flu pandemic.

Virologists from 40 countries warn that the year-long outbreak in the U.S. increases the likelihood of the virus spreading between humans.

The outbreak in the U.S. has affected over 1,000 dairy herds and resulted in the culling of tens of millions of poultry

since March 2024. 

Virologists from around the world have urged the U.S. to intensify efforts to tackle the ongoing H5N1 bird flu outbreak, warning of the pandemic risk to humans. They emphasize that the high human mortality rate from H5N1 highlights the dangers of underreacting to such threats. The scientists, part of the Global Virus Network representing over 40 countries, expressed concern about the spread of the virus across all 50 U.S. states, its infection of humans, and the death of at least one person.

Their statement, issued Tuesday, also points out the potential negative effects of turmoil within U.S. scientific institutions, such as funding cuts and restrictions on communication, which could hinder H5N1 surveillance. In an article published in The Lancet Regional Health-Americas, the experts called for enhanced surveillance, improved biosecurity, and preparations for possible human-to-human transmission.

Professor Marion Koopmans, co-author of the paper, noted that while the current risk to humans handling infected animals is low, it could increase if the virus mutates, particularly if it continues circulating in mammals. Such mutations could lead to a more dangerous pandemic scenario.

The U.S. outbreak, which began in March 2024, has affected over 1,000 dairy herds and resulted in the culling of tens of millions of poultry. More than 70 human cases have been reported, with one fatality in Louisiana, according to the CDC. Both the Biden and Trump administrations have faced criticism for not doing enough to control the outbreak.

As the outbreak continues, the risk grows that H5N1 could combine with other viruses, making it more transmissible. Last month, the UK reported the first known H5N1 case in a sheep.

The scientists urge the rapid sharing of U.S. genomic sequencing data and related information to track mutations. They also express concern over the suppression of scientific communication by the Trump administration, which they believe undermines public health measures. Current bird flu testing is insufficient, with the outbreak causing significant economic impact, including sky-high egg prices.

While milk testing is a vital part of surveillance, the scientists argue that it is not being implemented consistently across the U.S.