‘We’re not adequately prepared,’ warns bird flu expert after first reported U.S. death

• Doctor available to discuss the implications of the first U.S. bird flu death
• 'If the virus spreads widely, the current vaccine stockpile would be quickly exhausted'

CHICAGO --- The first U.S. bird flu death has been reported in Louisiana, prompting fresh concerns about the virus's potential to spread and the nation's readiness to respond.

"This is very significant, but completely expected," says Dr. Robert Murphy, professor of infectious diseases at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a Northwestern Medicine physician. "The patient was at high risk for complications and death from any influenza."

While no evidence currently suggests the virus is spreading from person to person, Murphy warns that its widespread presence among birds, poultry, cows and other animals increases the likelihood of mutation and human-to-human transmission.

"We are not adequately prepared for when that time comes," he said. "The good news is there is a stockpile of vaccines, but if the virus spreads widely, the current vaccine stockpile would be quickly exhausted."

Murphy also is the interim chief of the division of infection diseases at Feinberg. He is available to speak to media about the implications of this first U.S. death, the risk to the public and gaps in U.S. preparedness for a potential outbreak.

Contact Ben Schamissoat [email protected] to arrange an interview.