As of April 2, 2024, new information and guidance are available regarding the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus, which has been found in cattle in at least five states and was recently diagnosed in a farmworker in Texas. At this time, CDC has deemed the threat to the general public is low. However, people with close or prolonged, unprotected exposures to infected birds or other animals, or to environments contaminated by infected birds or other animals, are at greater risk of infection.

According to FDA and USDA, “There continues to be no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply because products are pasteurized before entering the market, or that this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health.” In addition, milk from impacted animals is being diverted or destroyed so that it does not enter the human food supply.

Please find important information below:

• CDC press release: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus Infection Reported in a Person in the U.S.
• CDC guidance (Updated 3/29/24) : Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus in Animals: Interim Recommendations for Prevention, Monitoring, and Public Health Investigations
• CDC recommendations for clinicians on monitoring, testing, and antiviral treatment for patients with suspected or confirmed avian influenza A virus infections.

NACCHO will continue to be in contact with CDC and to monitor this situation on behalf of local health departments. If you have any questions or feedback, please reach out to NACCHO at infectiousdiseases@naccho.org.