The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has sent a 9-member team of epidemiologists, veterinarians, and clinicians, plus an industrial hygienist, to Colorado to assist with managing a bird flu outbreak affecting both humans and poultry, according to the agency. Colorado reported 4 confirmed human cases of the infection and a possible 5th case earlier this week. As part of the ongoing evaluation, additional samples are being tested with the anticipation of additional cases coming to light. The Colorado outbreak affected workers who were involved in culling chickens at a commercial egg facility. These workers exhibited mild symptoms, ranging from conjunctivitis to respiratory issues, after being exposed to the H5N1 virus-infected poultry.
Status quo: CDC believes that the risk to the public from this outbreak still remains low. The first case in a poultry worker was reported in Colorado in April 2022, however, there is some pessimism on whether the nation would be prepared to manage a major outbreak if cases keep rising. So far, 151 dairy cow herds in 12 states have confirmed cases of avian influenza.
Read More
- CDC Ramps Up H5N1 Surveillance
- Preparing For Pandemic Influenza In The Urgent Care Setting
- CDC: Americans Have Little Immunity Against Avian Flu