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US Dairy Workers at Risk as Bird Flu Spreads Among Cattle

Limited protective measures and testing gaps heighten concerns over potential human infections

Avian Influenza A Virus (H5N1/Bird Flu) Colorized transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza A H5N1 virus particles (orange), grown in Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells (green). Microscopy by CDC; repositioned and recolored by NIAID. Credit: CDC and NIAID
This 2005 electron microscope image shows an avian influenza A H5N1 virion. On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, Michigan health officials said a farmworker has been diagnosed with bird flu, the second human case connected to an outbreak in U.S. dairy cows. (Cynthia Goldsmith, Jackie Katz/CDC via AP)
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Overview

  • Second confirmed case of bird flu in a dairy worker raises alarm.
  • Unpasteurized milk identified as a primary vector for virus transmission.
  • Protective equipment remains scarce despite federal recommendations.
  • Farmworkers face high exposure due to close contact with infected cows.
  • Experts warn that inadequate protections could exacerbate public health risks.