Opinion: With the threat of H5N1 bird flu, hospitals must stay prepared
Increased awareness of H5N1 among clinicians is important for recognizing potential infections in humans and initiating public health investigations.
A case of mammal-to-human transmission of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu virus has been reported in the United States. This, raises concerns due to the individual exhibiting respiratory symptoms, highlighting the pandemic potential of this virus. U.S. hospitals need to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
