The current strain of bird flu, or H5N1, has made its way into more and more headlines recently as its impacts continue to spread. A year ago, the virus first spread to some herds of dairy cattle, and in the months since, it has been detected in dozens of different species of animals, including humans.
As of January, there have been 66 confirmed human cases of H5N1 bird flu in the United States, and one death. The spread of the virus is not categorized as a pandemic as of now, but public health experts cannot rule out the possibility if new infections continue to ramp up.
What are the impacts of the bird flu?
Currently, the impacts of H5N1 have remained relatively limited to wildlife and agriculture. Shoppers are seeing higher prices on eggs, chicken, dairy, and other groceries where the supply has been directly impacted by the virus.
Humans who have been infected have mostly been people who are in direct contact with bird populations or other agricultural livestock. However, there have been a small number of cases in people who do not work with birds or livestock.
What happens if there’s a wider outbreak?
If H5N1 begins to spread more rapidly in the human population, there is already a stockpile of vaccine doses available in the US. However, the supply is limited and may need updating if the virus mutates as it spreads.
If there was a wider outbreak of bird flu, federal officials would be tasked with updating and mass producing the vaccine for distribution to the public. To stay informed on the status of H5N1 in the United States, check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
How can I protect my family from bird flu?
It’s important to note that the seasonal flu vaccine does not protect from bird flu. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following safety measures to protect your family from H5N1:
- Avoid raw milk. Consume only pasteurized dairy products.
- Refrain from giving domestic animals raw pet food.
- Be sure to fully cook poultry products including chicken, turkey, duck, and eggs.
- Make sure kids wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after being around birds or bird feces.
- Remind kids not to rub their eyes or touch their nose or mouth while handling birds or bird droppings.
- Tell kids never to touch a sick or dead bird. They should tell an adult so it can be reported.
Most infections clear up on their own, but the CDC recommends Tamiflu to ease symptoms if needed. If you or someone you know has come in contact with birds recently, or spent time with someone who is in regular contact with bird populations, and they show any of the following symptoms, isolate and call your doctor right away:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Pneumonia
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Respiratory failure
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Changes in mental status
- Seizures
