This is Bird Flu Update: US H5N1 News Now, your source for the latest factual developments on avian influenza in the United States.
As of this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports a growing number of human H5N1 cases across 13 states. The national total stands at 70 laboratory-confirmed human infections since March 2024, with California remaining the hardest-hit state, now reporting 38 cases. Other affected states include Colorado, Washington, Texas, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Louisiana. Tragically, Louisiana recorded the first human fatality from H5N1 bird flu in the US earlier this year.
Most human cases have occurred among farm and poultry workers exposed directly to infected animals. The CDC notes these cases have generally presented mild symptoms—primarily eye irritation and mild respiratory symptoms. However, recent months saw an increase in hospitalizations, including one severe case in Louisiana that was fatal. Importantly, there is still no evidence of sustained person-to-person transmission in the US according to updated research published by the CDC and highlighted by The New England Journal of Medicine.
In animals, the outbreak continues to impact both domestic poultry and dairy herds. According to the USDA, by late October, more than 1,100 dairy herds in California alone had been screened, with 133 farms confirming infection and a notable rise in deaths among calves. The USDA also recently confirmed the first H5N1 case in a pig in Oregon, marking a new development in cross-species transmission. Nationally, outbreaks among wild birds continue, with migrating ducks and geese carrying the virus to new regions, contributing to fresh outbreaks in both commercial flocks and backyard farms.
Both the CDC and USDA issued new guidance this past week. The USDA expanded its milk testing initiative, requiring all dairies in the highest-risk states—California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and Oregon—to submit regular milk samples for H5N1 surveillance. This follows earlier mandates requiring all cows moving interstate to be tested for bird flu. The CDC has streamlined its surveillance, now updating H5N1 data alongside its regular flu tracking, and continues to monitor over 7,000 people exposed to infected animals.
In research, recent studies confirm still no mutations in the H5N1 virus that would make it resistant to antiviral treatments. However, scientists emphasize the risk of the virus adapting, especially if a person contracts a human flu and H5N1 simultaneously, which could allow the viruses to exchange genetic material.
For listeners, the risk to the general public remains low, but those working with poultry, dairy cattle, or wild birds must follow protective guidelines, including wearing personal protective equipment and reporting any flu-like symptoms to health officials promptly. The CDC stresses that pasteurized milk and properly cooked poultry remain safe for consumption.
Compared to previous weeks, the trend remains serious but stable, with new animal and human detections occurring primarily among those with occupational exposure. With Thanksgiving approaching, experts remind everyone to remain vigilant and avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds.
Thank you for tuning in to Bird Flu Update: US H5N1 News Now. Join us next week for more informed updates. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out QuietPlease dot A I.
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