Experts warn H5N1 bird flu could trigger 2025 pandemic as infections spread nationwide
A Growing Threat
The bird flu virus, H5N1, is now in all 50 states. Experts are sounding the alarm. They say the U.S. may face another pandemic. The virus was once mostly a threat to birds. In 2024, that changed. For the first time, it jumped from a bird to a cow. Now, it’s affecting dairy herds, poultry farms, wild birds — and people.
Alarming Numbers
The Global Virus Network (GVN) has tracked the spread. Since 2022, more than 168 million birds have died or been culled. This year, over 1,000 dairy herds in the U.S. have tested positive. There have been 70+ human infections and one death.
Dr. Sten Vermund of the GVN issued a blunt warning. “Understanding this virus is critical,” he said. “It can infect both animals and humans. That’s dangerous.” He added that new genetic changes are making things worse.
Bird Flu in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has not seen cow infections. However, bird cases are rising fast. In January, geese found dead in Gettysburg tested positive. Another 200 snow geese died near Allentown. In February, bird flu struck two major farms: 20,000 ducks died in Cumberland County; 80,000 poultry were lost in Lancaster County.
State officials say over 2.3 million birds have been lost in 2025 alone. Commercial and backyard flocks have both been hit. The Pennsylvania Game Commission tracked wild birds through winter and spring. They continue to monitor the avian population closely.
How It Spreads
Veterinarian Dr. Kay Russo told CBS News that time is running out. “We need to act now,” she said. She believes milking equipment may help spread the virus between cows. Farm workers have reported flu-like symptoms.
Dr. Kamran Khan, an infectious disease expert, also spoke out. His company, BlueDot, was one of the first to detect COVID in China. He said the current bird flu spread is “just as concerning.” “This virus moves fast,” he warned.
What is H5N1?
H5N1 is a strain of avian influenza A. It spreads quickly among birds. It can also infect mammals, including humans.
Symptoms in humans include high fever, cough, sore throat, muscle pain, and eye irritation. Severe cases may lead to pneumonia or seizures. In many cases, symptoms worsen rapidly. The virus can be fatal if not treated early.
Calls to Action in PA
So far, Pennsylvania’s dairy industry remains free of H5N1. Testing has shown no spread among milk-producing cows. Still, the risk is real, experts say. GVN scientists warn that sporadic human infections may point to viral changes. The virus is still spreading in wild birds, backyard flocks, and even hunted animals.
What You Can Do:
- Poultry producers should report illness or sudden bird deaths by calling 717-772-2852.
- Anyone who finds a sick or dead wild bird should contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-WILD.
Officials say early detection is key. The more we know, the better we can respond.
Looking Ahead
The GVN is calling for stronger surveillance. They want biosecurity upgrades and preparation for a possible human-to-human transmission. No one knows if H5N1 will become the next pandemic. But scientists agree — the time to act is now.
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