Bird Flu Spreads: UK Reports New Outbreaks, US Cattle Herds Affected, Raw Milk Risks Persist

Bird Flu Bulletin: Daily H5N1 Update Saturday, November 8, 2025 This is Bird Flu Bulletin: Daily H5N1 Update. It’s Saturday, November 8, 2025. Here are today’s top stories and key developments on the global H5N1 situation: Top stories First, new H5N1 outbreaks have been confirmed in England and Northern Ireland. The UK government reports four new cases in commercial and backyard poultry flocks in Norfolk, Lincolnshire, North Yorkshire, and two additional cases in Northern Ireland. Each affected site is now under a protection and surveillance zone, and all poultry on those premises will be humanely culled to help stem the spread. Second, in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to report a total of 70 confirmed human cases of H5N1 since the outbreak began. No new human cases were reported in the last 24 hours, but there has been one new infected cattle herd detected in Arizona, bringing the total to 1,074 affected herds in 17 states. No new outbreaks in commercial poultry or backyard flocks were reported today, though vigilance remains high, especially in California and Pennsylvania according to the USDA and CDC. Third, health authorities are emphasizing the danger of consuming raw, unpasteurized milk. The Food and Drug Administration recently reiterated that while commercially available milk is safe due to pasteurization, raw milk continues to pose a risk for H5N1 transmission. Two recent recalls in California followed detection of H5N1 in raw milk, and several cats died after consuming contaminated dairy and raw pet food. Case numbers Today, the global H5N1 case count remains steady. The United States stands at 70 confirmed human cases, unchanged from yesterday. In the UK, total confirmed avian H5N1 cases for the current outbreak season increased to 34 across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland—up by six new poultry outbreaks in the past day. No new human cases have been identified in Europe in the last 24 hours. New guidance The UK government released revised biosecurity advice stating that small flock owners in England with fewer than 50 birds kept solely for personal use are not required to keep their flocks housed, easing previous restrictions. However, all flock owners are urged to maintain high levels of hygiene, limit visitor access, and immediately report any signs of illness or sudden death in birds. Additionally, U.S. health authorities continue to encourage agricultural workers and backyard flock owners to use personal protective equipment and report suspect cases promptly. Expert interview Joining us is Dr. Karen Bishop, an infectious disease specialist at the Center for Infectious Disease Research. Dr. Bishop, what should the public focus on given recent developments? Dr. Bishop: “High vigilance and basic precautions remain key. For most, the risk is still very low, but anyone in contact with birds, livestock, or raw milk should wear protective gear and practice strict hygiene. T This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.