CDC Statement on Bird Flu in Dairy Workers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have highlighted the potential risk of human cases of avian influenza A(H5N1) in dairy workers due to high levels of the virus in raw milk from infected cows.
Risk Assessment by CDC
The CDC emphasized that while sporadic human infections may occur, there is currently low risk for the general public in the United States.
Recent Case in Michigan
In Michigan, a dairy farm worker tested positive for the H5N1 virus. The worker experienced mild symptoms and has since recovered. Samples from the worker’s nose and eye were taken, with the eye sample testing positive for the virus.
Infection Spread and Risks
Across nine states, 52 US herds have been infected with bird flu. Close contact with infected birds or animals poses a higher risk of infection, according to the CDC.
Surprising Infections in Cows and Goats
Experts were surprised by the infection of cows and goats in March, as these animals were previously thought not to be susceptible to this type of flu. While affected cows have shown less severe illness, the virus fragments have been detected in pasteurized milk.
Concerns and Reassurances
Health authorities reassure that pasteurized milk sold in US stores remains safe. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission currently, but officials are vigilant about the potential mutation of the virus.
First Human Case of Bird Flu in Australia
Australia has reported its first confirmed case of human bird flu in a child who is suspected to have contracted the virus during a recent visit to India.
Case in Victoria
A child in Victoria has been confirmed as the first case of bird flu in Australia. The child acquired the avian influenza A(H5N1) infection while in India and was unwell in March this year.
Transmission and Vulnerability
There is no evidence of transmission in Victoria, and the chance of additional human cases is low as avian influenza does not easily spread between people. Humans are not vulnerable to this virus unless they have been in contact with infected birds or animals.