Current Status and Preventive Measures for H5 Bird Flu (November 2024)

Current Status of H5 Bird Flu (November 2024)

Outbreaks and Affected Regions

As of November 2024, H5 bird flu remains a significant concern worldwide, affecting both wild birds and poultry. The virus has been detected in various regions, including:

• United States: The H5N1 strain of the virus has been widespread, affecting wild birds in all 50 states since January 2022. Recent outbreaks have been reported in dairy cows and poultry, with human cases confirmed in Washington state and California.
  

  

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• Canada: British Columbia has reported its first presumptive human case of H5 bird flu, involving a teenager who is currently receiving care at a children's hospital. The province has been actively investigating the source of exposure, which is likely from an animal or bird.
• International: Human cases have also been reported in Vietnam, Australia, China, India, and Mexico. These cases are primarily linked to exposure to poultry, live poultry markets, or dairy cattle.

Preventive Measures

To protect against H5 bird flu, the following preventive measures are recommended:

1. Avoid Exposure to Sick or Dead Animals:
   • Avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, and other animals. If contact is unavoidable, use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, respirators, and eye protection.
   • Do not touch surfaces or materials contaminated with animal saliva, mucous, or feces.
2. Food Safety Practices:
   • Cook poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165˚F to kill bacteria and viruses, including avian influenza A viruses.
   • Avoid consuming raw or undercooked poultry products. Ensure that all dairy products are pasteurized.
3. Hygiene and Reporting:
   • Practice good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling animals or their environments.
   • Report sick or dead birds or other animals to local or federal authorities. This helps in early detection and control of the disease.
4. Vaccination:
   • Stay up to date with seasonal flu vaccinations to reduce the risk of influenza infections, which can sometimes complicate avian influenza cases.
5. Biosecurity for Poultry Owners:
   • Increase biosecurity practices to protect flocks from exposure to infected birds. This includes controlling access to poultry facilities and maintaining cleanliness.

By following these measures, individuals can reduce the risk of contracting H5 bird flu and help in controlling its spread.