The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed a second bird flu infection in a dairy farm worker in the United States this year. This latest case, reported in Michigan on May 22, follows an earlier case in Texas. Both individuals had prolonged contact with infected cattle and exhibited only pink eye as a symptom. Despite these cases, the CDC states that the risk to the general public remains “low.”
Understanding Bird Flu
Bird flu, or influenza A (H5N1), is a virus primarily affecting birds and poultry, known for its high contagion and fatality rates among birds. Occasionally, the virus infects other animals through the consumption of infected birds or contact with contaminated water. Viruses constantly mutate, and recent variants seem more capable of infecting animals like cattle. Human infections are rare, typically involving those in close contact with infected animals. Symptoms in humans can range from mild to severe, including pneumonia and severe lung inflammation. Since 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed 26 human cases globally, seven of which were fatal.
Human Infections in the U.S.
In this year’s outbreak among dairy cattle, two workers have been infected, bringing the total number of U.S. cases to three. The Michigan worker, after close contact with infected cattle, experienced only pink eye. Initial nasal swabs were negative for H5N1, but an eye swab confirmed the infection. They have since fully recovered. The first human case of 2024 in the U.S. involved a Texas dairy farm worker diagnosed in late March, who also experienced only pink eye without respiratory symptoms.
Federal and State Measures
To combat the spread of bird flu, the federal government is providing $200 million for transmission prevention, according to recent reports. The CDC has requested that states provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to at-risk dairy farm workers. Federal funding will support affected farms with up to $28,000 a day for measures to prevent animal-to-human transmission. Health agencies will receive $101 million for continued food safety monitoring.
Dairy and poultry farmworkers remain the CDC’s primary concern. The agency has asked state health and agriculture departments to provide PPE to these workers to prevent further cases. States are also encouraged to have bird flu tests readily available and maintain close communication with veterinarians and agriculture officials to report any challenges encountered.
Human Risks and Precautions
For the general public, the risk of bird flu remains low, according to the CDC. Human cases are extremely rare in the U.S., but the CDC has asked states to maintain vigilant monitoring for the virus. Even during summer, when human flu cases typically decrease, states should keep their monitoring at peak levels by testing positive flu samples for H5N1.
Impact on Food and Milk
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found that pasteurization inactivates the bird flu virus in milk, ensuring the safety of more than 99% of the commercial milk supply. The U.S. Department of Agriculture also tested ground beef for bird flu, and all samples tested negative. Bird flu has been detected in unpasteurized milk, but the CDC advises against consuming unpasteurized milk or cheese due to the risk of other infections. Properly cooking poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165˚F will kill the virus.
Farms are prohibited from selling products from sick animals, so it’s unlikely contaminated food will reach grocery stores. However, the outbreak may impact food prices, with egg prices already rising due to the culling of chickens. Milk prices could increase but have remained stable so far.
Vaccines and Treatments
Two candidate vaccines for the current strain of bird flu are under development, with enough doses to vaccinate a fifth of the American population. These vaccines are undergoing clinical testing to determine their effectiveness. Antiviral drugs can treat bird flu, though some Asian strains have shown resistance. Components for the vaccines are being tested, and distribution could take weeks to months. Vaccination will likely be prioritized for high-risk groups, such as poultry and dairy farmworkers, as there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Avoiding Bird Flu
To reduce the risk of bird flu, avoid close or prolonged contact with wild birds, cattle, or any suspected infected animals. The CDC recommends consuming only pasteurized milk and properly cooking poultry and eggs to prevent infection. Steer clear of surfaces that may be contaminated with raw milk, animal feces, or litter.
In summary, while bird flu poses a low risk to the general public, taking these precautions can help ensure safety and prevent the spread of the virus. Stay informed with the latest health news and follow guidelines to protect yourself and your family.
