The risk of (H5N1) bird flu to people in the U.S. is currently low, but CDC is preparing for the possibility of increased risk to human health
In April 2024, avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection was detected in a U.S. farm worker in Texas during an ongoing multistate outbreak in dairy cows. As of May 22, more than 350 people with exposure to dairy cows and/or infected raw (unpasteurized) cow’s milk have been monitored, and on May 22, 2024, a second human A(H5) case with conjunctivitis was reported by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. This most recent human A(H5) case was identified through daily monitoring of farm workers.
Though currently circulating A(H5N1) viruses do not have the ability to easily spread to and between people, it is possible that influenza A(H5N1) viruses could change in ways that allow them to easily infect people and to efficiently spread between people, potentially causing a pandemic. Thus, comprehensive worldwide surveillance and investigation of every novel influenza A virus case in humans is essential to prepare for any developments that increase the risk to human health. While CDC considers the current health risk to the U.S. public to be low, efforts are underway to enhance influenza surveillance activities through the spring and summer. Those efforts include increasing the number of influenza A-positive test specimens available for further testing; continuing surveillance for laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated hospitalizations; and encouraging clinicians to consider influenza A(H5N1) when evaluating patients who present with conjunctivitis or respiratory illness following a relevant exposure, such as attending an agricultural fair.
People with exposure to infected animals or contaminated materials, including unpasteurized (raw) cow milk, are at greater risk for A(H5N1) virus infection and should take recommended precautions, including wearing personal protective equipment, self-monitoring for illness symptoms, and, if symptomatic, seeking prompt medical evaluation for influenza testing and antiviral treatment if indicated.
As the federal human health lead on this response, CDC is conducting enhanced surveillance; planning epidemiologic investigations; evaluating existing laboratory tests, vaccines, and antiviral treatments for A(H5N1); and supporting states in monitoring exposed persons for infection.
Link: bit.ly/mm7321e1
Related: Health Alert Network (HAN) – 00506 | Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus: Identification of Human Infection and Recommendations for Investigations and Response (cdc.gov)
Contact: CDC Media Relations (media@cdc.gov; 404-639-3286)
