Most Recent Bird Flu Outbreak Detected
The State Health Department stated late Friday afternoon on July 12th that there were a total of three new human cases of virus infection from bird flu that have been identified. They have also been confirmed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This new outbreak in known as the highly pathogenic avian influenza or also known as “H5 bird flu.”
These human cases in particular are related to poultry workers. However, this was not the end of the spread. Recently, on Sunday, health officials updated the number of poultry workers infected with the avian flu or “bird flu.” According to health officials now a total of five people have as of now been impacted with the avian flu in the state of Colorado.
How the Poultry Workers Contracted the Virus
Now, in terms of how it was detected, health officials mentioned that the workers were culling birds at an egg laying operation in Weld County. Which is in Colorado and where the outbreak was detected last week. Additionally, the workers are believed to have caught the bird flu virus while they were working directly with infected birds.
Fortunately, their cases did not turn out to be extremely serious. However, they did experiences mild symptoms including,
- conjunctivitis or pink eye.
- common respiratory infection problems.
- Fever.
- Chills.
- Sore throat.
- Runny nose.
Not to mention, none of them were hospitalized, the state officials emphasized this information on Sunday. This is a problem that has become very common recently, especially in people who work in agricultural settings. In fact, according to the CDC state epidemiologists have mentioned that they suspect that the cases are a result of working directly with infected poultry. They also worry that this virus is capable of turning into a pandemic.
This Virus is Not New
Furthermore, the bird flu is not just affecting people but other animals as well. This virus has been spreading since 2020 among a variety of mammals. Cases have manifested in cats, skunks, dogs, bears and even seals. Now, like mentioned previously, the people that have contracted this virus are mostly those who have directly worked with infected poultry in the agriculture setting.
Which is why health officials currently continue to categorize the threat to the general public as low right now. Since it has not majorly spread between people. However, officials are keeping a close watch on it because previously their has been cases related to the H5 bird flu virus that have ended tragically and been deadly to people. Especially now, that the cases are rising and it is known that all the workers who were affected were working at dairy operations. And Colorado’s agriculture industry has been hit hard by bird flu. Even Gov. Jared Polis declared a disaster emergency on July 5th in order to ensure that the state is able to offer support and resources for farms in Weld County.
Also as mentioned, the state of Colorado is the leading state with the most cases reported than any other state. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture website, 30 livestock herds have been affected during the last 30 days. In the state of Iowa there has been 11 herds impacted as well, and in four other states there has been reported less than 10. Despite the knowledge of these reported cases, it is still not clear from the federal government how many other states are also testing for cases.
“Poultry Products Are Still Safe to Eat”
Now, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has stated that the poultry products are still safe to eat. Only if they have been properly handled and cooked. Cooking meat and eggs thoroughly and well done can effectively kill viruses and bacteria that might harm people, and according to the CDPHE that includes the avian flu viruses.
The CDC also strongly advises that everyone should avoid close or long exposure to any animal that might be sick or dead also animal poop or bedding. They also recommend people to not consume unpasteurized or raw milk. That state of milk can definitely cause potential contamination. Additionally there are services that can help people who suspect being sick or feel sick to get tested for it. They can call CDPHE at 303-692-2700 or 303-370-9395 after normal business hours.
Written by Jeanette Sanchez
Sources:
CNN Health: More cases of bird flu identified in Colorado poultry workers
CPR News: Colorado health officials say three agricultural worker in northeastern Colorado likely have bird flu
Fortune: Bird flu outbreak at Colorado farm as 5 workers reported positive: Experts warn of “turning point,” call for urgent action
NBC News: U.S. health officials confirm four new bird flu cases, in Colorado poultry workers
Featured Image Courtesy of Jen Zajac Flickr Page-Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of CIFOR-ICRAF Flickr Page-Creative Commons License
