News

CDC LogoMorbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)

Summary

What is already known about this topic?

Influenza A(H5) virus infection was detected in two U.S. farm workers during a multistate outbreak of A(H5N1) viruses in dairy cows; these are the first known instances of presumed cow-to-human transmission of avian influenza A viruses.

What is added by this report?

Approximately 350 exposed farm workers are being monitored; one of the two cases was identified via daily, active monitoring. Surveillance has identified no unusual influenza activity trends in the United States. A(H5) candidate vaccine viruses are available, and laboratory analyses indicate that A(H5N1) viruses circulating in cows and other animals are susceptible to FDA-approved antivirals.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Current risk to the U.S. public from A(H5N1) viruses is low; however, persons exposed to infected animals or contaminated materials, including raw cow’s milk, are at higher risk and should take precautions and self-monitor for illness. A One Health (human, animal, and environmental) approach is critical to preparing for circumstances that could increase risk to human health.

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Implications for Public Health Practice

CDC considers the current health risk to the U.S. public from A(H5N1) viruses to be low. However, persons who have job-related or recreational exposure to infected birds, poultry, dairy cattle, or other infected animals or contaminated materials, including raw cow’s milk, are at increased risk for infection; these persons should take appropriate precautions, including using recommended personal protective equipment, self-monitoring for illness symptoms (6), and seeking prompt medical evaluation if they are symptomatic, including influenza testing and antiviral treatment if indicated. FDA has confirmed that pasteurization inactivates A(H5N1) viruses, and that the commercial milk supply is safe for consumption (4); however, all persons should avoid consuming raw milk or products produced from raw milk. A coordinated and comprehensive One Health response to this ongoing outbreak of A(H5N1) virus infections in dairy cows, poultry, and other animals is needed to identify and prepare for any developments that indicate an increase in the risk to public health.

SEE: Outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Viruses in U.S. Dairy Cattle and Detection of Two Human Cases — United States, 2024 | MMWR (cdc.gov)

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7321e1.htm?s_cid=mm7321e1_w