Avian Flu Outbreak: H5N1 Investigated in Los Angeles and California
Public Health Departments Investigate Avian Flu in Los Angeles and California
Avian Influenza's Impression on Wildlife and People within the U.S.”>H5N1, known as avian influenza or bird flu, has gained attention recently after its detection in Los Angeles wastewater. The CDC confirmed a child in California was infected with H5N1, with no known source of infection from animals or humans in the household.
Currently, the U.S. has 55 confirmed cases of avian influenza, with 29 in California. Following the detection in wastewater by Los Angeles County on November 1, levels of H5N1 increased significantly.
Here are the recorded levels at the A.K. Warren Water Resource Facility:
- October 30, 2024: 20.74 Infa
- November 4, 2024: 87.62
- November 6, 2024: 109.3
- November 8, 2024: 81.23
- November 11, 2024: 172.5
- November 13, 2024: 240.1
- November 17, 2024: 28.11
- November 20, 2024: 52.25
The Los Angeles County Health Department stated that the risk to residents remains low. People handling infected animals are at higher risk, so health officials are working with agricultural communities to provide information.
Public Health Laboratories continue testing samples from birds and mammals for H5N1. They also monitor human clinical specimens as part of their surveillance. Public Health is investigating sources of H5, suspecting contaminated animal products as a possible cause due to dairy processing activities in the area.
As of today, a wild Canada goose in Westlake Village tested positive for H5N1, marking the latest development in this situation. The risk of H5N1 transmission to humans remains low.
Preventive Measures Against Bird Flu:
- Do not feed wild birds.
- Keep pets and people away from sick or dead birds.
- Prevent wild birds from accessing areas with pet birds or poultry.
- Report dead birds to local animal control.
- Remove bird feeders and communal bird baths.
- Keep pets away from sick or dead birds, as they might transmit the virus to mammals.
Raw milk has also tested positive for avian flu. After the discovery, Raw Farms LLC recalled contaminated milk products. The California Department of Public Health warned against consuming the contaminated milk.
CDPH emphasizes that pasteurized milk is safe to consume and cautions against raw milk, which can contain harmful bacteria in addition to avian flu.
Guidance on Animal Products:
- Avoid raw milk, raw cheese, and undercooked meats.
Symptoms of H5N1 in Humans:
- Cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue
- Fever or fever-like symptoms
- Eye redness or conjunctivitis
- Shortness of breath
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
Note that not everyone infected will show fever, especially older adults or immunosuppressed individuals.
Stay informed and follow safety practices to minimize risks related to avian flu.