Bird flu has been detected in a sheep in northern England, marking the first known case of its kind worldwide, Britain’s government confirmed. The discovery adds to the growing number of mammals infected by the virus, raising concerns about its potential to spread further.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as scientists warn that the virus’s increasing presence in mammals could heighten the risk of mutations that allow it to transmit more easily between species, including humans. While the current strain primarily affects birds, health officials are urging vigilance to prevent any potential outbreak.