H5N1 Bird Flu Alert: CDC Warns of Ongoing Outbreaks in Dairy Herds and Poultry Across United States

H5N1 Bird Flu Briefing: Public Health Alert Good afternoon. This is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention delivering today's public health briefing on H5N1 bird flu. Our purpose is to update you on the current situation, outline risks, and provide clear guidance to protect yourself and your community. The overall public health risk remains low for the general population, but we are monitoring closely due to ongoing outbreaks in wild birds, poultry, and dairy cows across the U.S. and globally. As of February 2026, CDC reports 71 confirmed or probable human cases since 2024, mostly among dairy and poultry workers with animal exposure. California leads with 38 cases, followed by Colorado with 10. CDC surveillance through January 31, 2026, monitored over 31,900 exposed individuals and tested 1,300 for novel influenza A, detecting no unusual flu activity nationwide. Animal cases persist, with H5N1 in 989 dairy herds across 17 states and recent confirmations in California dairy farms by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Globally, the FAO notes 1,391 outbreaks in 39 countries since December 2025. Human-to-human transmission is not occurring, and cases have declined in 2025 due to enhanced monitoring and reduced animal infections. This matters because H5N1 is widespread in animals, posing higher risk to those with direct contact. Stay vigilant to prevent any potential spread. Recognize symptoms promptly. Seek medical attention immediately if you have severe signs like high fever over 103 degrees Fahrenheit, difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent vomiting, especially after animal exposure. These require urgent care or emergency services. Milder symptoms such as eye redness, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, or low-grade fever can often be monitored at home. Isolate yourself, rest, stay hydrated, and contact your healthcare provider or local health department for testing guidance. Antiviral treatments like oseltamivir are effective if started early. For poultry workers, dairy farm staff, and high-risk settings: Follow strict containment protocols. Wear PPE including N95 respirators, eye protection, gloves, and disposable coveralls during animal contact. Report sick animals to state veterinarians immediately. Quarantine exposed herds per USDA and state guidelines, as seen in California's recent actions on multiple dairy farms. Avoid touching your face, and shower after exposure. Employers must provide training and equipment. General public guidelines, prioritized: 1. Avoid contact with sick or dead birds, poultry, or cattle. Do not consume unpasteurized milk or undercooked poultry products. 2. Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap for 20 seconds, especially after outdoor activities. 3. Cook poultry and eggs to 165 degrees Fahrenheit; pasteurize milk. 4. If you raise backyard birds, report illnesses to animal health officials. 5. Stay current on seasonal flu vaccine to protec This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.