H5N1 Avian Influenza Situation Update and Threat Overview for Business Continuity and Risk Management

H5N1 has received significant attention in mainstream media and the scientific community over the past three months, though it is not a new virus. Recent outbreaks in mink farms appear to be the first widespread transmission among mammals, raising concerns the virus could soon mutate to spread among humans.

Though the odds of happening are low, the outcome would be potentially catastrophic on a global scale. This low-probability/high-threat potential keeps the scientific community vigilant, particularly as the virus becomes better at spreading among mammals.