Scientific Asia: The CDC confirmed two farm workers in California had contracted avian influenza.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed on Thursday that two farmworkers in California had tested positive for H5 avian flu.
The California Department of Public Health confirmed the state’s first two likely human cases just hours after the announcement. Both workers submitted samples to the CDC for additional testing.
According to health experts, the two workers who contracted bird flu were not in contact with each other. They worked on separate dairy farms in California, and both farms had confirmed cases of H5N1 avian influenza in their cattle. Both individuals only experienced minor symptoms.
In both cases, the main symptom was red eyes, or conjunctivitis, indicating that the infection likely entered through the eyes.
This may happen if someone pours contaminated milk on their face. It can also happen if they rub their eyes after touching their virus-contaminated hands. Neither employee experienced respiratory symptoms or required hospitalization.
Public health officials say there is still little risk to the general public. However, farm workers are more at risk. So, the CDC advises them to use personal protective equipment, like gloves, a mask, and goggles, to reduce their infection risk.
Health experts said the public faces minimal risks. However, working with sick animals has caused “rare, sporadic infections” in some people.
The CDC has warned that the bird flu virus is common in wild birds and has been causing outbreaks on poultry farms across the United States since 2022.
In 2024, health authorities reported 16 human cases of bird flu in the United States, including the two most recent cases in California.
Bird Flu Infection in 2024:
- Texas: 1
- Michigan – 2
- Colorado: 10
- Missouri – 1
- California – 2
The government stated that exposure to sick or infected dairy cows contributed to six of the 16 documented human cases. Nine cases had exposure to contaminated poultry.
CDC Guidance:
The agency advised against consuming unpasteurized (raw) milk and cheese. It also warned to avoid contact with wild birds and sick or dead animals.
The CDC says to wear protective gear like masks and gloves if you work with dairy cows or other animals that might have bird flu. This means taking extra care when you’re around them, their milk, or anything that could be exposed to the virus.
The CDC recommends seeing a provider if you feel sick after being near infected animals. Also, contact your health department. Bird flu symptoms include red eyes (conjunctivitis), fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches.
