H5N1 Bird Flu Alert Low Risk Nationwide CDC Reports Minimal Spread and Recommends Preventive Measures

Good afternoon. This is an official update from the Public Health Authority. The purpose of this briefing is to provide the public with the latest facts and recommendations on H5N1 bird flu, outline the current alert level, describe what to watch for, detail protective steps, and connect you to resources for more information. As of today, August 30, 2025, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, reports that the overall risk to the general public from H5N1 bird flu remains low. In 2025, there have been 26 human cases worldwide, mostly in individuals with direct contact with birds or poultry, and 11 deaths across several countries outside the United States. Importantly, there is no evidence of sustained person-to-person transmission according to CDC surveillance. Within the United States, there have been a handful of cases this year, all in people with close contact to infected poultry or dairy cows. No new cases have been reported in the U.S. since February. The CDC and state health departments continue to closely monitor people with exposure to infected animals and to support containment efforts. The main symptoms of H5N1 in humans can include sudden high fever, cough, muscle aches, fatigue, shortness of breath, and in some cases, gastrointestinal upset. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, sudden dizziness, confusion, or a fever above 103 degrees Fahrenheit require immediate medical attention. Mild fever, body aches, or cough can be monitored at home if you have no known exposure and are otherwise healthy, but anyone who has had direct contact with sick birds, poultry, or unpasteurized dairy and develops any symptoms should reach out to a healthcare provider immediately. For those who work with poultry, dairy cows, or in high-risk environments, strict containment protocols are essential. The CDC recommends always using personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, goggles, and coveralls when handling birds or mammals that may be infected. Employers should provide proper training and equipment, ensure workers know how to doff PPE safely, and report any illnesses promptly. Immediate cleaning and disinfection protocols must be observed following any potential exposure. For the general public, the highest priorities are: 1. Avoid all contact with sick or dead birds and animals, including wild birds, poultry, and cattle. 2. Do not consume raw or unpasteurized milk, cheese, or other dairy products, as the FDA and CDC note that risk from pasteurized products is minimal, but raw products remain a concern. 3. If you keep backyard flocks or have recreational exposure to birds, watch for sudden illness in animals and report unusual bird deaths to local authorities. 4. Practice frequent handwashing, especially after being outdoors or in animal environments. 5. Stay informed through official sources and be cautious of misinformation. T This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.