Welcome to Bird Flu Intel: Facts, Not Fear, on H5N1. Today we tackle the latest science and myths around bird flu, cutting through hype and misinformation with evidence and clarity.

Let's start with the facts. H5N1, a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, has caused outbreaks among birds and some mammals worldwide. According to the U.S. CDC and European health agencies, from January to August 2025, there were only 26 confirmed human H5N1 infections globally, with 11 deaths. The vast majority of these cases were linked to direct contact with infected poultry or wild birds, not community spread. In the United States, no new human cases have been reported since February, and public health agencies maintain that the overall risk to the general public is low.

But there's a lot of misinformation out there. Let’s bust four widespread myths.

Myth One: “H5N1 bird flu is circulating widely among people.” That’s simply not supported by current data. The CDC and the World Health Organization both report that human cases remain extremely rare, and person-to-person transmission has not been observed in any of the 2025 cases. Nearly all human infections trace back to close contact with sick or dead birds.

Myth Two: “H5N1 bird flu is always deadly.” While early outbreaks had high mortality rates, recent evidence shows the case fatality rate has dropped significantly in 2024 and 2025, particularly in the U.S., where of 70 reported cases, there was only one death. Research, including a study published in Science Translational Medicine this year, suggests partial immunity from prior influenza A infections, especially with H1N1, is giving some people cross-protection, resulting in milder outcomes.

Myth Three: “You can get bird flu from eating eggs or commercial chicken.” According to the CDC and U.S. Department of Agriculture, properly cooked eggs and poultry are safe to eat. There is no evidence of H5N1 being transmitted through cooked food. Risks are associated with contact with live, sick, or dead birds, not with eating thoroughly cooked products.

Myth Four: “Bird flu will definitely become the next pandemic.” Scientists agree H5N1 has pandemic potential due to its ability to infect mammals. However, right now the virus has not developed the capability to efficiently spread between humans. Ongoing global surveillance is in place precisely to detect any changes that might signal an increased threat—but current risk assessments remain low for the general population.

So why does misinformation spread so easily? Social media amplifies rumors, while complex scientific findings are often oversimplified or misinterpreted. Inaccurate headlines can spark unnecessary panic, distract from real risks, and undermine trust in science.

How can you tell what’s credible? First, check the source: Look for information from established health authorities like the CDC, World Health Organization, or your country’s public health agency. Be wary of viral posts lacking references or evidence. Double-check facts, especially when claims seem exaggerated or provoke fear. Favor reporting that gives context, describes uncertainty accurately, and identifies its sources clearly.

What’s the current scientific consensus? H5N1 has evolved, can infect more species than before, and remains a significant concern for animal and global public health. But right now, it is not efficiently spreading among humans. Vigilance and research are ongoing.

Where do questions remain? Scientists are still working to understand how H5N1 might adapt for easier human spread, how immunity from prior flu viruses helps, and how best to manage outbreaks in animals.

Thank you for joining us on Bird Flu Intel. Come back next week for more facts, not fear. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.

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