Third Potential Human Case of Bird Flu Under Investigation in California

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is looking into a possible third case of bird flu in humans. The individual in question is believed to have contracted the virus from cows.

First Two Cases Confirmed

The first two human cases of bird flu in California were confirmed by the CDPH on October 3. The department revealed the possible third case in an update on October 5. The CDPH stated in the update, “The case was identified in a Central Valley individual who had contact with infected dairy cattle. Specimens are being sent to the CDC for confirmatory testing.” The department also noted that there is “no known link or contact” between the third case and the first two, which suggests that the spread of the virus in California is only from animals to humans.

Contacts with Dairy Cattle

The two confirmed cases were also in Central Valley. All three individuals had contact with dairy cattle at three different farms. The department said, “Like the first two cases, this individual also experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness or discharge (conjunctivitis). None of the individuals have been hospitalized.”

Risk Assessment and Safety Measures

The CDPH assessed that the risk of bird flu infecting the general public was low. However, people who interact with affected animals, such as workers at poultry or dairy farms, are at a higher risk of contracting bird flu. The agency advised such individuals to use personal protective equipment, such as respirators, gloves, and eye protection, when working with animals that are infected or potentially infected with the virus.

Milk and Dairy Products

The CDPH also stated that milk from sick cows is not allowed in the public supply according to state and federal regulations. However, milk and dairy products that are pasteurized are safe to consume, as the pasteurization process inactivates the virus.

Bird Flu in the United States

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bird flu in cows was detected for the first time in the United States this year. The virus is widespread among wild birds and has been responsible for outbreaks among poultry in the country since 2022. As of October 3, 17 human cases have been reported this year in five states—Texas, Michigan, Colorado, Missouri, and California. Six of these cases were linked to exposure to infected or sick dairy cows, while nine were due to exposure to infected poultry. Colorado registered the highest number of cases, at 10.

Outbreaks and Symptoms

The first multistate outbreak of bird flu in dairy cows was reported in late March. By October 1, more than 10,000 wild birds with bird flu were identified. More than 100 million poultry birds across 48 states have been affected. As of October 4, outbreaks in dairy cows have been reported across 14 states, with 255 herds impacted. The CDPH advises people exposed to infected animals to monitor themselves for symptoms such as eye redness (conjunctivitis), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, ​​trouble breathing, and fever for 10 days after the last exposure.

Preparedness Measures

On Friday, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response’s Center for Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority announced it was providing roughly $72 million to three companies to boost the manufacture of bird flu vaccines as part of national preparedness. The funds are being provided to CSL Seqirus, Sanofi, and GSK. These firms will “fill and finish additional doses of their influenza A(H5) vaccines from bulk storage into ready-to-use vials or pre-filled syringes so that vaccine[s] will be ready to distribute if needed.” The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has scheduled an October 10 meeting of its Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee to discuss preparedness for countering threats posed by the bird flu virus.

Bottom Line

The potential third case of human bird flu in California underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness. While the risk to the general public is low, those in direct contact with affected animals should take precautions. As the situation continues to evolve, it's crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of infection. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.