H5 Bird Flu California: CDC Confirms Human Cases
- California health officials have confirmed two human cases of H5N1 bird flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Both individuals had occupational exposure to infected dairy...
- The CDC stated that identifying H5N1 in people exposed to infected animals was not unexpected.
- The CDC is collaborating with California and other state health departments to control the spread of H5N1 from animals to humans.
California reports two human cases of H5N1 bird flu, marking a significant growth in the state, according to the CDC. These infections stem from occupational exposure to infected dairy cows; the individuals have no known contact. The CDC reassures the public that the risk remains low, working closely with California health departments to contain the spread of this primary_keyword. This news follows outbreaks among dairy herds since August, highlighting the importance of preventative measures, like avoiding contact with sick animals and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. With 17 U.S.cases as 2022, including instances in Texas, Michigan, and Colorado, understanding this secondary_keyword is critical. News Directory 3 is tracking this story. Discover what’s next as investigations continue to monitor and characterize the virus.
California Confirms Two Human Cases of H5N1 Bird Flu
Updated October 3, 2024
California health officials have confirmed two human cases of H5N1 bird flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Both individuals had occupational exposure to infected dairy cows. State officials are investigating the matter.
The CDC stated that identifying H5N1 in people exposed to infected animals was not unexpected. The agency affirmed that the risk to the general public remains low. Officials have found no connection between the two cases, suggesting separate instances of animal-to-human transmission.
The CDC is collaborating with California and other state health departments to control the spread of H5N1 from animals to humans. California’s monitoring efforts aim to reduce the risk to farm workers in contact with infected animals. The CDC plans further characterization of the viruses.
These are the first confirmed human cases of H5N1 bird flu in California, where outbreaks among dairy herds were initially reported in August. The virus, widespread in wild birds, has caused outbreaks among poultry since 2022 and sporadic infections in people working with infected animals.
Including these new cases, 17 human cases of H5 have been reported in the United States since 2022. In 2024, cases have been reported in Texas (1), Michigan (2), Colorado (10), Missouri (1) and California (2).Six cases were linked to exposure to infected dairy cows, and nine to infected poultry. The source of infection for the missouri case remains undetermined.
The CDC recommends measures to protect against H5N1 bird flu, including avoiding contact with wild birds and sick animals, and not consuming unpasteurized milk or cheese. The agency also advises farm workers to wear personal protective equipment when in contact with dairy cows or potentially contaminated surfaces.
The CDC advises individuals who become ill after close contact with infected animals to contact their local health department and a health care provider for testing. Symptoms of H5N1 include eye redness, mild flu-like symptoms, fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, runny nose, and muscle aches.
What’s next
Ongoing investigations will focus on further characterizing the virus and monitoring for any additional cases. Public health officials will continue to emphasize preventative measures and provide updated guidance as needed to mitigate the spread of H5N1 bird flu.