**No Human Transmission of H5N1 Bird Flu Detected in Cyprus**
In a recent statement, infectious disease expert Petros Karayiannis confirmed that there have been no recorded cases of human-to-human transmission of the H5N1 bird flu virus detected in birds at Athalassa Park in Nicosia earlier this week. Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, Karayiannis reassured the public that there is "no reason for concern."
The H5N1 virus, known for its potential severity in birds and its sporadic transmission to humans, was identified in a goose at the park. Following this discovery, a second suspected case involving a duck was reported. However, Karayiannis noted that the risk of the virus mutating to become more easily transmissible among humans has not been observed. "We did not see any change for the worse, that is, making it more easily transmitted to humans and from human to human, and the latter is not observed at all," he stated.
Karayiannis explained that humans are considered "dead-end hosts" for the H5N1 virus, meaning that while the virus can infect humans, it does not spread easily between them. He emphasized that the primary risk of transmission to humans arises from domestic birds rather than wild ones. "It usually affects people who work there and do not wear the appropriate protective clothing, gloves, masks, protective glasses, and shoe covers to protect their shoes," he added.
The expert also addressed the potential for the virus to spread among birds, indicating that transmission occurs primarily through contact with the secretions of infected birds. "If it is infected and sheds secretions, the poultry can become infected that way," he explained.
Regarding the situation at Athalassa Park, Karayiannis suggested that the presence of the virus may be linked to the movement of wild birds during their migration. He noted that these birds often stop to drink water or forage, which could lead to the transmission of the virus through their droppings or secretions. "Wild birds, during their migration to warmer areas, stop somewhere to drink water or eat. By extension, they may leave the virus either through their faeces or through their secretions at that particular point, and that is how these ducks may become infected," he said.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the H5N1 virus is circulating more widely in Cyprus. Karayiannis indicated that this could become evident if more dead birds are reported in other areas. He advised the public to avoid the lake for "a few more days" as a precaution, but reassured visitors that they are not in danger, given that the park is an open space.
In summary, while the detection of H5N1 in birds at Athalassa Park has raised concerns, health officials are monitoring the situation closely and have found no evidence of human transmission. The situation remains under observation, and the public is encouraged to stay informed while taking necessary precautions.