In a world first, Finland is set to roll out bird flu vaccinations for humans next week, targeting workers who are most exposed to animals. This proactive measure involves vaccinating 10,000 individuals, each receiving two doses, as part of a broader EU effort that includes up to 40 million doses across 15 countries. CSL Seqirus, the Australian pharmaceutical company behind the vaccines, confirmed to Reuters that Finland will be the first to launch this vaccination strategy.
“The vaccine will be offered to those aged 18 or over who are at increased risk of contracting avian influenza due to their work or other circumstances,” announced the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL). Although the Nordic country has not yet detected any human cases of the virus, this preemptive approach is part of the country’s efforts to safeguard its population and mitigate bird flu risks, especially from its fur farms. From birds to cattle to humans Bird flu, formally known as avian influenza, encompasses various influenza type A viruses that primarily affect birds but can also infect non-avian species, including humans.
Among the many strains, H5N1 is a significant one that has been circulating among wild birds worldwide. Birds transmit the virus through their saliva, mucus, and faeces, posing a risk to people and animals in close, unprotected contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. In a surprising development in March, H5N1 strain rapidly spread through dairy co.
