Avian Influenza outbreak in the USA

According to the United States Centre for Disease Control (CDC), 11 cases of human avian influenza (H5N1) have been reported since April 2024. Four cases have contracted the disease from dairy cows in 3 states (Texas, Michigan and Colorado) and 7 through exposure to poultry in Colorado.

The first ever case of avian influenza was reported in a poultry worker in April 2022 in Colorado.

The latest poultry cases were reported in July. Over 18 million birds have been affected since April this year. None of the human cases was seriously unwell (typical cold and flu-like symptoms plus a “pink eye”) and the threat to the US public is considered low.

An interesting disease prevalence study is being undertaken in dairy workers who are exposed to herds with cows testing positive to the H5N1 virus. Thirty-five workers who have tested negative for the H5N1 virus are being followed for changes to their immunity. The specimens were collected in June 2024.

Previous studies have shown low prevalence rates in workers with known previous exposures.

The current situation regarding Avian influenza in the United States can be viewed at CDC.

Recommendations regarding prevention and current protective actions for people can be viewed here.

What's the current situation in Australia?

Australia is currently experiencing its own avian influenza outbreak. It is not the same strain which is causing issues overseas.

In Australia there are 3 separate strains, H7N3. H7N9 and H7N8. Australia has had previous outbreaks in 2012, 2013 and 2020. There has been one case of avian influenza in a child who had acquired the disease in India.

The Department of Health through its interim Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) will be monitoring for human cases into the future. Poultry workers are considered most at risk.

The risk to the wider community is very low.