Chicago, May 9 (Reuters) - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are set to unveil a public dashboard, potentially as early as Friday, showcasing data on influenza A detected in wastewater. This initiative aims to shed light on the recent outbreak of H5N1 bird flu among cattle herds.


Amy Kirby, head of the CDC's wastewater team, informed Reuters on Thursday that the agency has pinpointed spikes of influenza A, including the H5N1 subtype, at several sites and is currently delving into the source. Notably, there's no evidence of human H5N1 infection.


During the COVID-19 pandemic, analyzing wastewater from sewers proved invaluable in tracking mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 virus.


Kirby explained that the CDC has been gathering influenza data from approximately 600 sites since at least last autumn to enhance respiratory infection surveillance. This data now proves instrumental in monitoring the spread of the H5N1 bird flu outbreak, which has impacted 42 dairy herds across nine U.S. states, along with one dairy farm worker.


Given scientists' vigilance regarding potential mutations facilitating human-to-human transmission, the wastewater tests represent a crucial monitoring tool. However, while capable of detecting various influenza A strains, including H5N1, they do not pinpoint the virus source—whether avian, bovine, milk-related, or originating from farm runoff or human carriers.


The forthcoming dashboard will empower individuals to monitor influenza A prevalence in their vicinity, comparing it with historical data where accessible. With seasonal influenza cases declining significantly, any sudden spikes could signify unusual flu activity.


To date, testing has revealed localized increases in flu presence, confined to a few sites, Kirby noted. Of particular surprise is the cattle outbreak and the virus's presence in milk, which can find its way into wastewater. The CDC is actively investigating factors contributing to these wastewater findings, including the presence of milk.