Recent Outbreak of Bird Flu Among Poultry Workers in Colorado

Four More Poultry Workers in Colorado Diagnosed with Bird Flu

Health officials in Colorado have confirmed that four more poultry workers in the state have been diagnosed with bird flu. This brings the total number of cases in the United States to nine since the first human case of the current outbreak was detected in 2022, also in a Colorado poultry worker.

The illnesses reported in these cases have been relatively mild, with symptoms such as reddened and irritated eyes, fever, chills, coughing, sore throat, and runny nose. None of the affected individuals required hospitalization. The workers had all been culling poultry at a farm in northeast Colorado and had direct contact with infected birds.

Although the virus has been circulating among mammals since 2020, including in dogs, cats, skunks, bears, seals, and porpoises in various countries, it is not known to have spread between people. However, earlier versions of the virus have been known to be deadly to humans.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has dispatched a team to Colorado to assist with the investigation at the state’s request. Genetic analysis is underway to confirm that the virus in these recent cases is the same as in previous U.S. cases.

As of now, the threat to the general public is considered low, but health officials are keeping a close eye on the situation. The U.S. Agriculture Department has confirmed the presence of the H5N1 virus in numerous dairy herds and poultry flocks across the country.

The CDC and state health officials are urging caution and monitoring for symptoms among individuals who have had contact with infected birds. It is essential to follow recommended safety protocols and report any concerning symptoms promptly.

The battle against bird flu continues, as health authorities work to contain and prevent further spread of the virus. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving situation.