On Monday, health officials announced that five more individuals are undergoing testing for potential bird flu infections linked to outbreaks in California’s dairy sector.

The five suspected cases are located in California’s Central Valley, with testing still pending as per the California Department of Health’s report.

As of Monday, there are six confirmed bird flu cases in the state, according to a statement from health officials. These individuals had close contact with infected dairy cattle across nine farms and are showing mild symptoms, such as red or watery eyes (conjunctivitis). Fortunately, none have required hospitalization.

The health department mentioned that samples are expected to be sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for testing early this week.

“With the level of exposure to infected cattle, current evidence indicates that the virus is primarily spreading from animals to humans in California,” the health department stated. “Genomic analysis by the CDC of three cases in the state shows no signs of the virus adapting to infect or spread between people.”

Public’s risk is minimal

Officials from California indicated that the general public’s risk remains low, but cautioned that people who “come into contact with infected animals are at a greater risk of contracting bird flu.”

The six confirmed cases show no known connections, which implies there might be extensive transmission among dairy herds. This poses potential hazards for those working closely with the livestock.

One recently identified individual worked at the same farm as a previously infected employee, but they were situated in different parts of the facility and did not have direct contact, according to the CDC.

Yearly tally reaches 20 confirmed bird flu cases

So far this year, authorities have confirmed 20 bird flu cases in the United States. Almost all of these individuals worked directly with infected poultry or dairy animals. Notably, one case in Missouri has no traceable source of infection, stated officials from both state and federal agencies.

Blood tests are currently awaited for those who were in close proximity to the Missouri individual, who had been hospitalized due to the virus. This group includes several healthcare workers who treated the patient. Some of these workers reported mild respiratory symptoms, but officials emphasized there is no evidence of the virus spreading from person to person, which would indicate a change in how the virus propagates.

Currently, there are 100 confirmed cases of bird flu in dairy herds across central California, leading to a significant increase in reported cases at a national level. Nearly 300 herds across 14 states have confirmed infections.

Advised precautions for workers

Health officials are advising livestock workers to utilize protective gear, including N95 respirators, goggles, face shields, and gloves.

The CDC is also enhancing its vaccination efforts for livestock workers against the seasonal flu, given their higher risk of bird flu infection.

While the seasonal flu vaccine does not offer protection against bird flu, officials are concerned that any cross-reaction between the two types of influenza could lead to mutations that make bird flu more contagious or severe.

The federal government has also amassed emergency bird flu vaccines, although they have not yet been deployed.