A rapidly spreading strain of H5N1 avian influenza, more commonly referred to as bird flu, has ravaged bird populations worldwide. Since 2022, over 147 million birds in the U.S. alone have been affected, causing economic strain, increasing egg prices, and growing public health concerns. The virus has also begun spreading to other mammals, including dairy cows, cats, and even humans. The question of the day stands tall: what if bird flu mutated to turn airborne and effectively spread among people? Scientists warned that such mutation would be all it took for the next great global pandemic. Understanding Bird Flu: What makes it dangerous?

Bird flu is one of the forms of influenza which mainly infects birds but occasionally jumps to humans and other mammals. The high fatality rate among infected humans makes H5N1 more alarming. Similar to human flu viruses such as H1N1 and H3N2, H5N1 also has distinct protein structures that will not let it spread from one person to another, at least for now.

There are two major known subtypes of avian flu that have infected humans: influenza A(H5N1) and influenza A(H7N9). WHO reports that H5N1 mortality in the Western Pacific Region has reached up to 54% among reported cases. Despite the fact that human infections are rare, health experts are always worried about mutation.

Can Bird Flu Become Airborne?

Currently, H5N1 is not yet able to be transmitted from person to person by the air, although viruses are found to evolve. If H5N1's genetic makeup is changed in such a manner that it can be airborne, scientists fear that it may lead to a deadly pandemic. Unlike seasonal influenza, which spreads by respiratory droplets, bird flu is mainly transmitted by direct contact or any exposure to the infected animal or their body fluids. However, airborne transmission would mean the virus could spread much more easily, making containment significantly more difficult.

Researchers are keeping a close eye on cases in mammals, as transmission among non-bird species may be a sign that the virus is adapting. Pandemics such as the 1918 Spanish flu have, in the past, originated from animal influenza viruses that mutated to become highly transmissible in humans. If H5N1 takes this path, the world may be facing a severe public health crisis.

How Do Humans Get Infected with Bird Flu?

Although it is rare, bird flu can be transmitted to humans. Infected birds spread the virus through their saliva, mucus, and excrement. Other infected animals, like dairy cows, can also harbor the virus in their respiratory secretions, milk, or blood. In these cases, the virus is transferred to humans by direct contact with infected animals or surfaces. These viruses may enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth and can be inhaled via airborne particles, such as dust.

Although human infections have been few, the threat remains that each new case increases the possibility of mutation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. emphasizes that the risk to the general population remains low, but cautions close contact workers who work closely with animals, like farmworkers and veterinarians.

Symptoms and Duration of Bird Flu Infection in Humans

The incubation period for H5N1 in humans varies but generally ranges between 2 to 5 days, with some cases taking up to 17 days to manifest symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Sore throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis)

Most recent U.S. cases have been mildly symptomatic but, worldwide, H5N1 infections have caused severe respiratory illness and sometimes death. Mortality has been high in all previous outbreaks; thus, officials are on their toes in regard to new infections.

Who's at Greatest Risk?

The people at high risk of acquiring bird flu are those who are in close contact with infected animals, such as poultry farm workers, veterinarians, and dairy farmers. Also, people whose immune systems are weakened, including young children and older adults, are more susceptible to severe illness. Although this is rare, there have been documented cases of limited human-to-human transmission, especially among family members caring for infected individuals.

Are Eggs Safe To Eat?

Well, health experts have assured me that properly cooked poultry and eggs do not harbor the virus of avian bird flu. Also, high heat will kill such a virus for human consumption; however, sometimes birds get flu even after ingesting raw commercial pet food leading to the transfer of the diseases in under-cooked animal-based food products.

Raw milk from infected cows remains a potential risk, though more research is needed to determine the extent of its transmissibility. The CDC advises avoiding raw dairy products and ensuring that all poultry and eggs are thoroughly cooked before consumption.

Preventive Measures: How to Stay Safe

Although the current level of risk in humans is quite low, extra precautions are best taken, starting with people regularly in contact with birds or live stocks. Such precautions have included the following recommendation by the CDC:

• Avoid all direct contact with sick or dead birds and animals.
• Use adequate protective equipment- gloves, mask, goggles-as needed to collect potentially infected animals.
• Wash hands well afterwards with soap, water, antiseptic cleaners, and all poultry and its products.
• Poultry and eggs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
• Pasteurized dairy products are the safest options.

Monitor for symptoms if you have been exposed to infected animals. Seek medical attention if flu-like symptoms occur.

The Uncertain Future of H5N1

Although the threat of an airborne mutation is speculative at this point, scientists warn against complacency. Surveillance programs monitor changes in the virus, and vaccine development is ongoing to prepare for a potential outbreak.

Like all other emerging infectious diseases, preparation is essential. Public health officers encourage further studies and collaboration that would ensure an early detection and control of H5N1 before it even threatens the entire world.

For now, the risk of a bird flu pandemic is low, but the experience with COVID-19 teaches that preparedness should be proactive. Understanding the risks, staying informed, and following recommended safety protocols can help to minimize potential dangers in the years ahead.

While TrumpRx is making headlines for lowering the prices of popular weight loss drugs, something else has also grabbed attention of many. A video from the Oval Office from the Thursday Press Conference when President Donald Trump was announcing the deal with the drugmakers, a man had collapsed. Many claimed that the person who collapsed was Gordon Findlay, who is Novo Nordisk's executive. Dr Mehmet Oz, an American present and a physician was swift to check on the man who had collapsed. Independent journalist Eric Daugherty shared the video and wrote: "A man just passed out during President Trump's Oval Office announcement. Dr Oz Sprung into action and assisted him. Pray for him."

Is The Man Gordon Findlay?

The reason why many have identified the man as Gordon Findlay because in the video, David Ricks, CEO of Eli Lily could be heard asking, "You okay? Gordon, you okay?" Upon this, the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in the statement that "a representative with one of the companies fainted". However, no names were given.

Also Read: TrumpRx Lowered Prices Of Popular Weight Loss Drugs; What More Does Trump's New Medical Website Offer?

Novo Nordisk later clarified the claims, and in a statement to Newsweek, the company said, "Please be aware that CEO Mike Doustdar and EVP, US operations, Dave More were the only two Novo Nordisk representatives in the Oval Office."

Dr Oz had previously also helped out at the Oval office in April, when a child fainted while he was being sworn in. A woman, who many media outlets claimed, appeared to be Oz's daughter, Daphne, escorted the girl who had fainted. Later, the White House official confirmed to Fox News Digital that the girl was family member of Oz and had recovered.

What To Do When Someone Collapses?

If someone collapses in front of you, the first need is for someone to try simple CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, while medical help is on its way. What must one keep in mind if someone collapses?

Check for any danger around the person, and give the shoulders of the person who collapsed a shake. Ask them if they can hear you, notes BBC.

If there is no response, tilt their head back to ensure that the airway is clear. This may be enough for the person to again start breathing.

If they are not breathing, this is when CPR becomes important.

Also Read: Delhi Sees A 60% Surge In Patients With Eye Problems Due To Worsening Air Pollution, According To Doctor

How To Do CPR The Right Way?

As per NHS, UK, there are two correct ways to practice CPR on adults:

Hands-only CPR

This is to be carry out as a chest compression

• Start with kneeling next to the person and place the heel of your hand on the breastbone at the centre of their chest. Place the palm of your other hand on top of the hand that is on their chest and interlock your fingers.
• Position yourself so your shoulders are directly above your hands.
• Using your body weight (not just your arms), press straight down by 5 to 6cm (2 to 2.5 inches) on their chest.
• Keeping your hands on their chest, release the compression and allow their chest to return to its original position.
• Repeat these compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 times a minute until an ambulance arrives or for as long as you can.

CPR with rescue breaths

• Place the heel of your hand on the center of the person's chest, then place the palm of your other hand on top and press down by 5 to 6cm (2 to 2.5 inches) at a steady rate of 100 to 120 compressions a minute.
• After every 30 chest compressions, give 2 rescue breaths.
• Tilt the person's head gently and lift the chin up with 2 fingers. Pinch the person's nose. Seal your mouth over their mouth and blow steadily and firmly into their mouth for about 1 second. Check that their chest rises. Give 2 rescue breaths.
• Continue with cycles of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths until they begin to recover or emergency help arrives.

Ozempic is about to go on sale! With TrumpRx, a website announced by the US President Donald Trump will allow Americans to buy popular weight loss drugs at a cheaper rate. The drugmakers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk have agreed to match prices to the lowest paid in peer nations for all their drugs in Medicaid and for the list prices when their medications first hit the market. They will be offering primary care medicines that will reach to customers directly at a discounted price.

While popular weight loss drugs could be bought from the website at as lowest as $149 per month, what else does TrumpRx offer?

In his own words, "By taking this bold step, we are ending the era of global price gouging at the expense of American families."

Not just Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, in fact, it was Pfizer, which is the first US pharmaceutical group that signed up to the website. The company said that it would offer discounts of up to 85%. This is for the medicines for those not using health insurance policies to pay and for those on the government's low-cost insurance programme - Medicaid.

When Will TrumpRx Be Launched?

The plan is to launch the website in early 2026 from where consumers could buy prescribed medicines directly from pharmaceutical companies without having to go through insurance. This is also to aid those under the Medicaid programme, which is a federal government programme for adults and children from lower-income backgrounds. The beneficiaries will have access to the drugs at a discounted prices, which is closer to those paid by national health services in foreign countries, known as the "most favoured nation" prices.

What Does "Most Favoured Nation" Prices Mean?

"Most Favoured Nation" or MFN prices are those that the national health services in countries including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Denmark pay the US pharmaceutical companies for prescribed drugs.

Since these medicines are exported in a bulk, the prices are lowered as the purchasing power is greater to demand of the ordinary consumers. This is why pharmaceutical companies tend to sell their drugs at a lower price outside than in their own country. Earlier this year in May, Trump, thus signed an executive order that aimed at reducing prescription drug prices in the US. He stated, "The United States will no longer subsidise the health care of foreign countries.”

How Does TrumpRx Play A Role?

Apart from the lower drug prices of popular weight loss drugs, Trump, in July had sent letters to CEOs of 17 pharmaceutical companies and ordered them to reduce their prices, based on certain promises from his end, which included:

Manufacturers will be provided with an avenue to cut out middlemen and sell medicines directly to patients

Manufacturers will be supported by trade policy in raising prices internationally

Trump had also announced new 100% tariffs on imported, branded pharmaceutical products, which will allow him to deliver the second promise.

How Will TrumpRx Benefit People?

As per a 2022 study commissioned by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, which is published on the US government website, the standard insulin prices in the US are 10 times higher than the prices in 33 OECD countries (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development). Lowering of the prices of drugs domestically, and removing the middle men could bring the prices down.

The study also found that the average gross prices in US were more than 10 times the price in France, and the United Kingdom. The prices further skyrocketed by nine times in Italy, eight times the prices in Japan, seven times the prices in Germany, and more than six times in Canada.

While many people who take insulin already pay a "net price", which is lower than the standard price, however, the net price is still 2.33 times the price paid in other countries.

TrumpRx, thus, could benefit anyone who buys drugs directly from the website. This is especially for those who do not have a health insurance in the US. As per a 2024 report from the US Census Bureau, around 8%, which makes 26 million of the US population, do not have a health insurance.

Which Medicines Will Be Sold Through TrumpRx?

Apart from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk's popular weight loss drugs like Zepbound, Ozempic and Wegovy, Pfizer too has shared a list of primary-care medicine, not limited to the following:

• Eucrisa: topical ointment for atomic dermatitis at an 80% discount
• Xeljanz: an oral medication for types of arthritis at a 40% discount
• Zavzpret: a drug to treat migraines at a 50% discount
• Duavee: to treat menopause symptoms at around an 85% discount.
• Toviaz: a drug for overactive bladder.

TrumpRx: US President Donald Trump had announced this week that his administration plans to roll out a new website, called TrumpRx, which will allow Americans to purchase prescription medications from pharmaceutical companies at discounted rates.

In a major step to address rising drug costs, the Trump administration also unveiled agreements with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to reduce prices for popular GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound. These deals, part of the TrumpRx initiative, are expected to make the drugs more affordable for Medicare, Medicaid, and direct consumers starting in 2026.

Also Read: TrumpRx Lowered Prices Of Popular Weight Loss Drugs; What More Does Trump's New Medical Website Offer?

Trump Annoucement Today: What Is TrumpRx?

TrumpRx is an online platform designed to let consumers buy prescription medicines directly from the manufacturers, bypassing insurance intermediaries. The website is scheduled to launch in early 2026. Users will be able to search for the specific drug they need and be directed to the drug’s manufacturer, according to USA Today. The platform will offer prices closer to what national health services pay in other countries, following the principle of “most favoured nation” pricing. Medicaid beneficiaries—federal insurance for low-income adults and children—will also have access to the platform.

Also Read: Trump Strikes Agreement To Cut Costs of Popular Weight Loss Drugs: All You Need to Know

TrumpRx: Will The New Website Slash Prescription Drug Prices?

The website is part of a broader effort by Trump to curb high prescription drug costs in the US. In July, he sent a letter to the CEOs of 17 pharmaceutical companies demanding lower prices.

In the letter, he outlined several key points:

• Manufacturers must provide MFN (most favoured nation) prices to all Medicaid patients.
• Companies must ensure that new drugs are not sold at lower prices in other developed nations than in the US.
• Manufacturers will have an option to sell directly to patients, cutting out middlemen, but prices cannot exceed the lowest rates in other developed countries.
• Trade policies will be leveraged to support higher international pricing, with any additional revenue abroad reinvested to reduce costs for American consumers and taxpayers.

TrumpRx: Who Will Benefit Most From This Platform?

Anyone looking to buy prescription drugs directly from manufacturers, rather than through insurance, could benefit. A 2024 US Census Bureau report noted that 8% of Americans (about 26 million people) lacked health insurance in 2023, meaning they could significantly benefit from lower prices. Medicaid may also benefit, as its deal with Pfizer offers better pricing terms. Details about how this part of the program will work are not fully clear yet. Since most Americans rely on insurance for healthcare, experts believe initial adoption of the site may be limited.

TrumpRx: Trump Announces Deal With Drugmakers to Lower Cost of Weight-Loss Drugs

On Thursday, President Trump announced deals with Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly to cut costs for the lowest doses of their popular weight-loss drugs, lowering barriers for new patients seeking treatment. Beyond government programs, the same GLP-1 drugs will be available directly to consumers via TrumpRx.gov, launching in January 2026.

The starting doses of injectable Wegovy and Zepbound will cost $350 per month but are expected to trend down to $245 over two years. Oral versions, including Novo Nordisk’s upcoming semaglutide pill and Eli Lilly’s orforglipron, will start at $149 per month once approved.