H5N1 Bird Flu Briefing: Public Health Alert

Good evening. This is an official public health update regarding the ongoing H5N1 bird flu situation. The purpose of today’s briefing is to inform and guide the public as we continue to monitor and respond to H5N1 avian influenza in the United States and globally.

Currently, the United States remains at a heightened but stable alert level for H5N1 bird flu. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been approximately 70 confirmed human cases in the U.S. since early 2024, most linked to direct exposure through dairy herds and poultry farms. Of these, nearly all individuals have experienced mild illness, though at least one death has occurred, underscoring the seriousness of the virus for those with direct animal contact. As Johns Hopkins University notes, while general infection rates in livestock and wild birds have declined recently, the risk remains highest for those working in or near affected farms and herds.

It is important to stress that the overall public health risk in the U.S. remains low at this time. There has been no confirmed sustained person-to-person transmission of H5N1, but sporadic animal-to-human cases highlight the need for continued awareness and caution.

Recognize the symptoms. Immediate medical attention should be sought for anyone experiencing sudden fever, severe cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or symptoms that worsen rapidly after exposure to sick poultry, wild birds, or contaminated raw milk. Milder symptoms such as sore throat, mild cough, or general fatigue without known exposure can usually be monitored at home. However, if illness progresses or you are in a high-risk group, contact your healthcare provider.

For those who work with poultry, dairy cattle, or in animal processing, please follow strict containment protocols. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves, masks, and eye protection. Avoid consuming raw or unpasteurized milk. Report any sudden increase in animal illnesses or deaths to your local agricultural authority promptly. Clean and disinfect all equipment after use. In the event of direct exposure, monitor your health daily for at least 10 days, and report any symptoms immediately to occupational health services.

For the general public, please observe the following prioritized guidelines:
- Do not handle sick, dead, or wild birds. If necessary, contact animal control.
- Avoid raw or unpasteurized milk and dairy products.
- Wash hands thoroughly after any contact with animals or animal products.
- Ensure poultry, eggs, and other animal products are cooked fully before consumption.
- Stay informed through reliable health authority sites.

Trusted sources for further information include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your local health department, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. For urgent concerns or if you develop symptoms following exposure, contact your physician, visit your nearest emergency department, or call the CDC emergency hotline at 800-232-4636.

Thank you for tuning in to this important public health announcement. For regular updates, please join us next week. This has been a Quiet Please production, and for more, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.

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