A confidential report from China’s disease control agency reveals a new mutation in the H5N1 bird flu virus, now called A/H5N1-2025E. As of March 13, 2025, this version of the virus shows changes in a key gene (HA protein) that makes it more likely to infect humans. Animal tests suggest that it can now attach to human cells more easily, raising the chance of human-to-human spread from low to medium.
By March 12, authorities found 127 samples of this mutated strain across the country. Most came from live bird markets, while others were detected in poultry workers who showed no symptoms. The highest concentration of cases is in areas with large poultry farms, especially around the Yangtze and Pearl River regions.
Precautionary School Measures in Beijing and Shanghai
To stay ahead of any potential outbreak in people, schools in Beijing and Shanghai have been told to prepare. In Beijing, five major districts like Chaoyang and Haidian will move all classes online. Other districts may use a mix of online and offline learning.
In Shanghai, schools in places like Pudong and Minhang will get access to a full online learning platform for all grade levels. Also, China’s three big mobile providers will give students free internet access for learning apps during the outbreak period.
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