- Weekend Rounds
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- Bird Flu Emergency
Bird Flu Emergency
Plus: Animal research breakthroughs and veterinary sustainability
Hello 👋
Welcome back to another edition of Weekend Rounds!
In three days it is both Christmas and the first night of Hanukkah on December 25. For the first time in 20 years, the holidays will overlap making it a true Christmukkah… or as we would call it, a Seth Cohen fever dream:
Just remember… keep the pets away from the trees and gelt.
Here’s what we’re covering:
🐔 Bird Flu Emergency
🐖 2024’s Animal Research Breakthroughs
🌎 Veterinary Sustainability
🚀 Quick hits
🐔
Bird Flu Emergency
California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency to combat the bird flu, which has spread to over a quarter of the state’s dairies and infected 34 residents. The H5N1 virus, first detected in California cows in August, has wreaked havoc on the dairy industry, with 649 dairies reporting infections. The virus has also made its way to humans, with the first severe case reported in Louisiana.
Key Points:
Dairy Disaster: The virus has infected 649 dairies in California, with 313 cases in the last 30 days alone. The movement of cattle and shared equipment are likely culprits.
Human Impact: So far, 61 human cases have been reported in the U.S., Most have been mild, except for one fatal case in Louisiana.
Economic Blow: The dairy industry is struggling, with milk production dropping significantly. Pasteurized milk remains safe, but raw milk has been recalled due to contamination. Which seems bad for RFK Jr.
Emergency Measures: The state of emergency allows for more funding and resources to combat the outbreak, similar to responses for natural disasters.
Future Concerns: Experts worry about the potential for the virus to mix with seasonal flu, making it more transmissible or severe. Vaccines for cows are in early trials, but human vaccines are stockpiled and not yet distributed.
Global Impact: The United states is not the only affected region with cases surging in poultry dense regions in Europe.
In a world where we can barely handle a sneeze without panic, it’s extremely unsettling to know we’re equally unprepared for the next pandemic. But at least cows are getting their version of “Operation Warp Speed.” 🐄💉
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2024’s Animal Research Breakthroughs
2024 has been a groundbreaking year for animal research, bringing hope and innovation across various fields. This week, Understanding Animal Research has a round up of the most amazing breakthroughs made using animal testing. Research using animals can be a polarizing and sometimes upsetting topic, but it is incredible to see the genuine breakthroughs that can happen with well-intentioned, methodical and ethical research.
From restoring hearing in toddlers with gene therapy to pioneering deep brain stimulation for epilepsy, the advancements are nothing short of miraculous:
We’ve seen the first new asthma treatment in 50 years, a promising mRNA cancer vaccine, and a revolutionary schizophrenia drug.
Researchers have mapped pig lung immunity, revealing insights that could lead to better vaccines and treatments for both humans and animals
Cardiff University’s discovery that bacteria can trigger type 1 diabetes opens new avenues for understanding autoimmune diseases.
Immunotherapy research is unlocking new ways to fight cancer, and a novel approach to Alzheimer’s disease is shedding light on brain mechanics.
Lastly, a fascinating study on liver function could revolutionize cardiovascular treatments.
These breakthroughs underscore the vital role of animal research in medical progress, paving the way for future innovations.
🌎
Veterinary Sustainability
The Veterinary Sustainability Alliance (VSA) is making waves in the veterinary world by championing eco-friendly practices. Founded by a group of passionate veterinarians, the VSA aims to reduce the environmental impact of veterinary practices across North America. Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California, Dr. Diccon Westworth spearheaded efforts to transition his hospital to 100% renewable energy, setting a powerful example.
The VSA offers a carbon calculator tailored for veterinary clinics, helping them measure and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. They also provide a comprehensive guide for improving sustainability, from waste management to eco-friendly product procurement. With support from corporate sponsor Mars Inc., the VSA is poised to make a significant impact.
Dr. Colleen Duncan of Colorado State University highlights the growing interest in sustainability among veterinary students, emphasizing the need for educational resources. The VSA’s initiatives are part of a global movement, with similar efforts in the UK and Australia, all working towards a greener future for veterinary medicine.
By making sustainability accessible and actionable, the VSA empowers veterinary professionals to lead the charge in combating climate change, ensuring a healthier planet for all creatures great and small. 🌍🐾
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Quick Hits
Here are some of the other stories that caught our eye and we're following this week from around the veterinary world and animal kingdom:
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