Concerns about H5N1 bird flu are growing among health officials following the first U.S. death from the virus, reported in Louisiana. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expressed sadness over the news but stated that such an outcome is not unexpected, given the virus’s potential to cause severe illness and death.
Since 2024, 66 confirmed human cases of H5N1 have been reported in the U.S., with 67 cases since 2022. Globally, more than 950 cases have been reported to the World Health Organization (WHO), with about half resulting in death.
Despite this, the CDC maintains that the risk to the general public remains low. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission, and no virologic changes have been detected that would suggest increased risk to human health. However, individuals with job-related or recreational exposure to infected birds or animals are at higher risk. The CDC continues to work with state and local partners to monitor the virus, track potential mutations, and provide prevention resources.
As infections continue to rise in both animals and humans, here’s what you need to know about bird flu, its risks, and how to protect yourself.
What Is Bird Flu?
Bird flu, or avian influenza (H5N1), is a virus primarily carried by migratory and aquatic birds like ducks and geese. The virus has been circulating since the 1990s after being first detected in Southeast Asia.
How Does Bird Flu Spread?
- Wild birds shed the virus through saliva, mucus, and droppings, which can contaminate water sources and farm equipment.
- Poultry, such as chickens and turkeys, can contract the virus when exposed to infected wild birds.
- Other farm animals, including dairy cows, have also been infected. Infected cows shed the virus in their milk, potentially spreading it to humans and other animals that consume raw milk.
- The virus can survive on contaminated surfaces, posing an indirect risk to humans.
Since 2022, over 200 mammal species have been infected with H5N1, including domestic cats and aquatic mammals, according to the CDC.
How Does Bird Flu Spread Among Mammals?
Most mammals, including humans, contract bird flu through:
- Consuming infected poultry or raw milk
- Direct contact with saliva, mucus, or feces of infected animals
- Contaminated farm equipment
Human-to-human transmission has not been reported, but health officials remain cautious about the virus’s potential to mutate.
What Is the Risk to Humans?
While the general public’s risk remains low, those in high-risk occupations—such as farm workers, poultry handlers, and dairy workers—face the highest risk of exposure.
Symptoms in Humans
The most common symptom in humans is conjunctivitis (pink eye). Other flu-like symptoms may include:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Muscle aches
Since 2024, 66 cases of bird flu have been confirmed in the U.S., with most infections occurring among dairy farm workers. The recent first U.S. death in Louisiana reinforces concerns about the virus’s ability to cause severe illness.
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Is There a Vaccine for Bird Flu?
Currently, no vaccine is available for the H5N1 strain. However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has allocated $590 million to Moderna to accelerate the development of an mRNA vaccine.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
For Individuals
- Avoid direct contact with wild birds, poultry, and farm animals.
- Do not consume raw milk or undercooked poultry.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Get a seasonal flu shot to reduce the risk of co-infection with bird flu.
For Farmworkers and Poultry Owners
- Limit contact between wild birds and domesticated poultry.
- Use protective equipment (gloves, masks, and eyewear) when handling animals.
- Clean and disinfect farm equipment and surfaces regularly.
- Monitor livestock for signs of illness and report suspected cases to animal health officials.
Should You Feed Wild Birds or Use Bird Baths?
Although songbirds have a lower risk of spreading bird flu, bird feeders and birdbaths may attract wild birds that carry the virus. The CDC recommends observing birds from a distance and avoiding direct contact with wild bird droppings.
How Are Officials Responding?
The CDC and state health officials are actively:
- Investigating each H5 case to assess public health risks.
- Conducting active surveillance to monitor the virus’s spread.
- Analyzing viral changes that could make H5N1 more adaptable to humans.
- Testing for antiviral resistance to ensure treatment options remain effective.
- Providing prevention resources for people at risk, including farmworkers and poultry handlers.
Final Thoughts
While the risk to the general public remains low, farmworkers and poultry handlers should take extra precautions to reduce exposure. Avoid direct contact with infected animals, practice good hygiene, and stay informed about new safety measures and vaccine developments. The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring public health remains a priority.
Stay safe, stay informed, and protect yourself from bird flu.
Additional information about H5 bird flu is available on the CDC website.
