This is an official public health briefing on the H5N1 avian influenza outbreak. Our purpose today is to update you on the current situation, explain the alert level, guide you on health measures, and provide resources for response and support.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified the H5N1 situation as a “Public Health Alert.” As of October 31, 2025, there have been 70 confirmed human cases nationwide, including one fatality. Most cases involve people exposed through dairy herds or poultry operations. California, Colorado, and Washington have reported the highest numbers. H5N1 is present in wild birds, commercial poultry, backyard flocks, and more recently, dairy cattle herds. Cow-to-cow and animal-to-human transmission has been documented, underlining the need for vigilance. An alert is necessary because, with the virus detected in livestock, food products, and a range of mammals, the risk for humans—especially those with frequent animal contact—remains elevated.
Understanding symptoms is key. If you experience high fever, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden muscle weakness, or confusion, seek immediate medical care. Less severe symptoms such as mild respiratory discomfort, headache, or sore throat can often be monitored at home. The American Medical Association emphasizes that gastrointestinal signs, rash, or eye irritation following exposure should also prompt a call to your health provider. Note that human infection can be asymptomatic, particularly among those exposed through dairy farms.
For those working with poultry, cattle, or in animal processing, strict containment protocols are vital. These include using personal protective equipment, such as gloves, N95 respirators, and eye protection; following routine handwashing after animal contact; disinfecting all surfaces and equipment; and reporting sick or deceased animals immediately. Anyone exposed to sick animals must notify occupational health and avoid attending work if symptomatic. The USDA mandates regular testing of dairy herds and now requires milk samples from processors in key states. Remember, drinking only pasteurized milk is crucial, as live H5N1 virus has been detected in raw milk.
Guidelines for the general public, prioritized:
- First, avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds or animals, including strays and wildlife.
- Second, do not consume raw or unpasteurized milk, eggs, or poultry meat.
- Third, wash hands thoroughly after visiting farms, parks, or markets.
- Fourth, keep pets—especially cats—indoors if there has been a local outbreak, as spillover to pets has been documented.
- Fifth, stay informed through verified health sources; rumor and misinformation can undermine safety.
Johns Hopkins Public Health highlights that timely vaccination against seasonal flu is recommended to reduce healthcare strain and avoid concurrent infections.
Resources for further information:
- CDC Bird Flu Situation webpage
- USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
- State and local health departments
- For emergencies: call your healthcare provider or 911
Thank you for tuning in to the H5N1 Bird Flu Briefing. Please come back next week for more updates. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.
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