First Severe U.S. Bird Flu Case Confirmed as Virus Spreads Across Livestock

A Louisiana resident is critically ill with H5N1, while outbreaks in cows and poultry disrupt the dairy and farming industries.

The CDC confirmed the first severe U.S. case of bird flu in a Louisiana resident who contracted the virus from a backyard poultry flock.
California declared a state of emergency as bird flu outbreaks in cattle herds intensify, impacting milk production and the dairy industry.
Scientists are developing vaccines for both humans and animals, with experimental mRNA vaccines showing promise in early trials on ferrets.
The virus has infected 875 livestock herds across 16 states, with California seeing significant economic losses and long-term impacts on dairy production.
Health officials emphasize that pasteurized milk remains safe, but warn against consuming raw milk, which could carry the virus.