An ongoing outbreak of bird flu among U.S. dairy cows has resulted in three confirmed human cases in dairy workers. Although there have been no confirmed cases of human-to-human transmission, experts emphasize the need for safety measures such as masks, vaccines, and safety goggles in the event of a pandemic declaration due to the virus’s high fatality rate.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is closely monitoring human and animal exposure to the H5N1 bird flu virus, stating that the current public health risk remains low. Bird flu primarily affects humans who have had contact with infected birds, and the exact transmission process is not fully understood, although it may occur through airborne transmission or contact with infected surfaces.
Former CDC director Robert Redfield has warned that a bird flu pandemic is inevitable, citing the virus’s high death rate as a cause for concern. Of the 889 confirmed human cases between 2003 and May, 52% resulted in death. The World Health Organization defines pandemics as large-scale outbreaks that can disrupt societies and devastate economies, and it will not declare a bird flu pandemic until certain criteria are met.
The CDC has recently included H5N1 in its influenza A wastewater surveillance data to better monitor the spread of bird flu. However, the limitations of this testing mean that the source of the virus cannot be determined, as it could come from a human, animal, or animal byproduct. The potential for a bird flu pandemic has raised concerns about implementing safety measures in the event of increased transmission.
Experts suggest that safety measures for a bird flu pandemic could include masking, social distancing, and protective eyewear, especially for farm workers who have close contact with potentially infectious animals. Several FDA-approved bird flu vaccines are available, but supply shortages may limit their availability in the event of a pandemic. Better communication between public health agencies and the public will be essential for a successful vaccine rollout.
The ongoing outbreak of bird flu among dairy cows in the U.S. has led to millions of poultry being euthanized and confirmed cases in dairy cow herds across multiple states. Wild migratory birds are believed to be the original source of the outbreaks, raising concerns about the potential for the virus to mutate and spread more easily in humans. While there is no evidence of humans contracting bird flu from eating infected meat, safe cooking practices are recommended to reduce the risk of illness.
