H5N1 Bird Flu Briefing: Public Health Alert
Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. This is the Public Health Authority delivering today's H5N1 Bird Flu Briefing: Public Health Alert. Our purpose is to update you on the current situation, provide clear guidance, and emphasize that while we remain vigilant, the risk to the general public remains low according to the CDC's latest assessments as of December 2025.
H5N1 avian influenza, also known as bird flu, continues to circulate widely in wild birds, poultry, and U.S. dairy cows, with over 5,000 outbreaks reported in the Americas since 2022 per PAHO data. In the United States, there have been 71 confirmed human cases since early 2024, primarily among dairy and poultry workers, including one recent H5N5 case in November 2025 confirmed by WHO and CDC. Most cases are mild, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission, but one death occurred in early 2025. The CDC assesses the overall public health risk as low, though occupational exposure carries a low-to-moderate risk. This matters because sustained animal spread could lead to mutations, underscoring the need for vigilance without panic.
Seek immediate medical attention for severe symptoms including high fever over 103°F, difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent vomiting. These require prompt testing and antiviral treatment like oseltamivir. Monitor at home milder signs such as eye redness, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, or fatigue for 10 days post-exposure; isolate, rest, hydrate, and contact your doctor if they worsen. CDC surveillance has tested over 30,600 exposed individuals, detecting cases early.
For poultry workers, dairy farm staff, and high-risk settings: Follow strict containment protocols. Wear PPE including N95 masks, goggles, gloves, and gowns during animal contact. Report sick birds or cows immediately to USDA. Depopulate infected flocks per APHIS guidelines, as seen in recent wild bird detections through December 2025. Monitor for 10 days post-exposure and test if symptomatic. Enhanced farm surveillance is critical to prevent spillover.
For the general public, prioritize these guidelines:
First, avoid contact with sick or dead birds, backyard poultry, or dairy cows; do not consume unpasteurized milk.
Second, practice hand hygiene, cook poultry and eggs to 165°F, and clean surfaces.
Third, if you experience symptoms after animal exposure, stay home and call your healthcare provider.
Fourth, stay informed via official channels.
For more information, visit CDC.gov/bird-flu or PAHO.org. In emergencies, call 911 or your local health department. Antivirals are available; vaccines are in development.
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