CDC Confirms Another Human Bird Flu Case, Bringing Total to 67

FRIDAY, Jan. 17, 2025 (HealthDay News) -- The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed another human H5N1 avian flu case -- otherwise known as bird flu -- in California on Thursday, bringing the nationwide total of cases to 67.

California has been hit hardest, accounting for 38 cases, according to CDC data.

The latest case involved a San Francisco child who developed fever and conjunctivitis but was not hospitalized and has since fully recovered.

Most of the H5N1 infections in California have been linked to exposure to sick dairy cows, as well as poultry, though state health officials have reported two cases with undetermined exposure sources. Both involved children.

In its latest report, the CDC emphasized that the risk to the general public still remains low. However, certain groups are at higher risk, including:

• Farm workers exposed to sick animals or their byproducts

• Backyard bird flock owners

• Animal care workers

• Public health responders

The CDC also outlined factors that could raise the threat level, including increased disease severity and genetic changes in the virus.

The CDC recommends several measures to curb the spread of bird flu:

• Avoid direct contact with wild birds and other animals infected with or suspected to be infected with avian influenza A viruses.

• If you must have direct/close contact with infected or potentially infected creatures, wear recommended personal protective equipment.

• Do not touch surfaces or materials (such as animal litter or bedding) contaminated with saliva, mucus or feces from wild or domestic birds or other animals with confirmed or suspected bird flu infection.

• Do not touch or consume raw milk or products made from raw milk, especially from animals with confirmed or suspected avian influenza A virus infection.

More information

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more guidance on bird flu prevention.

SOURCE: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; University of  Minnesota Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, news release, Jan. 15, 2025