California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in response to the ongoing outbreak of avian influenza, or bird flu, which has significantly impacted the state’s dairy industry and raised concerns about potential human health risks.
The highly pathogenic H5N1 virus, which has been circulating in wild birds for years, has now infected millions of poultry and a growing number of mammals, including dairy cattle.
In California, the virus has been detected in hundreds of dairy herds, leading to significant economic losses for farmers.
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Human Health Concerns
While the risk to the general public remains low, health officials have confirmed cases of human infection in several states, including California. Most infections have been mild, but there have been instances of severe illness, particularly in individuals with underlying health conditions.
The CDC has emphasized that there is no evidence of sustained person-to-person transmission of the virus. However, experts caution that the virus’s ability to mutate and adapt could pose a greater threat in the future.
Preventive Measures
To mitigate the spread of the virus and protect public health, health officials recommend the following:
- Avoid contact with sick or dead birds.
- Practice good hygiene, especially after handling poultry or eggs.
- Cook poultry thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Avoid consuming raw or undercooked eggs.
- Consult with a healthcare provider if you experience flu-like symptoms, especially if you have been in contact with infected birds or animals.
As the situation continues to evolve, health and agricultural officials are working closely to monitor the outbreak and implement measures to protect public health and the agricultural industry.
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