Bird Flu Update: US H5N1 News Now
The United States continues to monitor a significant outbreak of H5N1 bird flu, with new developments in both animal and human cases. As of early November 2025, the CDC reports a total of 70 confirmed and probable human cases since 2024. Most cases have mild symptoms, and all are linked to animal exposure, primarily dairy cattle and poultry. California leads with 38 cases, followed by Washington with 11, and Colorado with 10. The CDC confirms that human-to-human transmission has not been identified, and the immediate risk to the general public remains low.
Recent CDC surveillance shows no unusual trends in flu activity, but targeted monitoring continues for those exposed to infected animals. Over 7,300 people have been monitored, and more than 60,000 specimens have been tested at public health labs. The CDC now integrates H5N1 updates into routine influenza reporting, reflecting the current public health situation.
On the animal side, USDA data shows that since March 2024, nearly 1,000 dairy herds across 17 states have been affected by H5N1, with California reporting over 750 infected dairies. Many of these herds have recovered and are under ongoing surveillance. Poultry flocks have also been hit hard, with detections in hundreds of commercial and backyard flocks, affecting millions of birds nationwide.
In the past week, California lifted movement restrictions for poultry but maintains a ban on exhibitions for both poultry and dairy cattle due to ongoing infections in dairies. The USDA continues to require bird flu testing for milk-producing cows before interstate movement, and raw milk processors in several states are now mandated to collect and share samples with agricultural officials.
Recent research highlights that H5N1 can infect a range of mammals, including domestic cats and pigs, with the first U.S. case in a pig reported in Oregon. Experts note that while human cases remain rare and mild, the virus could potentially acquire pandemic capabilities if it swaps genes with a human flu virus in a co-infected individual.
For the public, the risk remains low. Most human cases are among those with direct animal contact, such as farm workers. The CDC advises routine hygiene, especially for those working with animals, and recommends staying informed through official health channels.
Compared to previous weeks, the number of new human cases has stabilized, but animal infections, particularly in dairy herds, remain widespread. The situation is closely watched, with ongoing efforts to contain the virus and protect both animal and human health.
Thank you for tuning in to Bird Flu Update: US H5N1 News Now. Come back next week for more updates. This has been a Quiet Please production. For me, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.
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