Avian Flu in Flight

It’s been a busy year for influenza cases, but it’s not what we’ve seen in our clinics and hospitals that has infectious disease experts most worried. They are concerned about avian flu, otherwise known as the H5N1 subtype of influenza A. Specifically, they are worried about stress what happens if H5N1 jumps to humans and potentially spreads. What is that risk for people and what challenges lie ahead? In this episode, we’ll explore our current standing and whether we are approaching public health crisis. From virology to epidemiology to infection control strategies, we’ll break down the science, the current data and practical considerations for clinicians on the front lines.

To help us understand this ever-evolving virus and its threat, we are joined by two incredible infectious disease experts, Samuel Dominguez, MD, and Suchitra Rao, MD. They both specialize in infectious disease at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Dr. Dominguez is the Medical Director of the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory. Dr. Dominguez is a professor of pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and Dr. Rao is an associate professor.

In this episode, our infectious disease experts discuss:

• Overview of the current flu season and why it stands out
• H5N1 transmission of H5N1 and the factors making this season concerning alarming
• How humans have been infected this season
• Assessing the current risk to kids
• Key actions primary care providers (PCPs) can take right now