Arizona Reports First Human Cases of Avian Influenza
So far, there have been fifty-eight documented cases of human infections across the nation, with California having the largest share.
Arizona has confirmed its first cases of H5 avian flu infections in humans, affecting two individuals, while California is investigating a possible infection involving a young child.
The department explained, “H5 infection in humans can range from mild (such as upper respiratory symptoms and conjunctivitis) to severe (including pneumonia, multi-organ failure, and death). Currently, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of H5, and the overall risk to the public remains low.”
Human infections typically arise from exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments. The state is implementing “swift and comprehensive action” to address the situation regarding the flu.
For example, authorities are monitoring bird flu among livestock and those who care for them. They are distributing protective gear to farm workers and ensuring access to testing and treatment options.
Additionally, avian influenza has been detected in a backyard flock in Maricopa County, Arizona.
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Officials in the county are currently investigating the circumstances and collaborating with state and federal agencies to confirm the case and identify the source of the infection.
The highest number of cases, 32, is in California, followed by Washington with 11, Colorado with 10, two in Michigan, and one each in Missouri, Oregon, and Texas. The primary source of infections has been infected cattle, followed by poultry.
Milk Supply Impact
A significant concern regarding avian flu in cattle is its impact on the milk supply. As of December 6, the flu has affected 720 dairy herds across 15 states, according to the CDC.
Although no avian flu cases have been linked to the product, the notice emphasized that “consumers are strongly urged to avoid consuming any of the affected raw milk.”
However, the department reassured that pasteurized milk is “safe” for consumption, explaining that the pasteurization process heats milk to “specific temperatures for a set duration to eliminate many microorganisms and enzymes responsible for spoilage and illness.”
“Pasteurization effectively kills the bird flu virus and other harmful germs present in raw milk. The CDPH urges consumers to refrain from drinking raw milk or consuming raw milk products due to the risk of foodborne illness.”
Organizations linked to the milk supply chain are required to submit raw milk samples upon USDA request. Additionally, cattle owners with flu-affected cows must provide data to facilitate disease surveillance and contact tracing.
According to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, this new strategy aims to enhance states’ ability to safeguard the health of dairy cattle.
“This initiative will provide farmers and farmworkers with greater confidence in the safety of their animals and their own protection, as well as enable us to act swiftly in controlling and halting the virus’s spread nationwide,” he stated.