CDC Confirms Fourth Human Case of H5N1 Bird Flu Linked to Dairy Cow Outbreak
The centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced a fourth human case of H5N1 avian influenza, connected to the ongoing outbreak among dairy cattle.Despite this advancement, the CDC maintains its assessment of the risk to the U.S. general public as low.However, the agency emphasizes the continued importance of following recommended precautions for individuals with exposure to infected animals.
The case involves a dairy worker who, due to their work exposure to H5N1 virus-infected cattle, reported symptoms to state health officials. Initial state testing yielded inconclusive results. Subsequent specimens sent to the CDC confirmed the presence of influenza A(H5). The specific neuraminidase designation (the “N” in the subtype) is currently pending genetic sequencing at the CDC, with results expected within 1-2 days. Further genetic analysis will be conducted to determine if any viral changes necessitate an updated risk assessment.
This case was identified thru state-level implementation of CDC’s recommended monitoring and testing strategies for exposed individuals. The CDC has been actively engaged in preparedness efforts, including numerous calls with state and local health departments. The agency has also taken steps to bolster the supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) for farmworkers and updated interim recommendations to specifically include those working with dairy cows. Outreach efforts include calls with farmworker representative groups and targeted digital outreach in affected counties, providing information on bird flu prevention and symptom awareness.
The CDC recommends that individuals avoid close, prolonged, or unprotected contact with sick or deceased animals, including wild birds, poultry, and livestock (including cows). Avoiding unprotected exposure to animal waste,bedding,raw milk,and materials potentially contaminated by infected animals is also crucial.
Detailed interim recommendations for prevention, monitoring, and public health investigations are available on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/prevention/hpai-interim-recommendations.html. Updated guidance on worker protection and PPE use can be found at: http://tools.cdc.gov/bird-flu/prevention/worker-protection-ppe.html. Adherence to these recommendations is considered vital for minimizing individual risk and containing the broader public health impact.
Further information about H5N1 avian influenza is available on the CDC website: https://tools.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/.
