While you probably know that bird flu can cause severe illness and death in poultry and other animal species, did you know that people are at risk, too?
In humans, bird flu can also lead to serious respiratory diseases and potentially fatal complications, particularly following close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
The Ohio Department of Health recently reported the state’s first probable human case of influenza A(H5), commonly known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) or bird flu, in an adult male farm worker from Mercer County. This individual had contact with deceased commercial poultry, highlighting the occupational risks associated with poultry farming and the importance of preventative measures.
While the CDC considers the overall risk to the general public to be low, those with prolonged, unprotected exposure to infected birds face a higher risk.
Here, we’ll examine the details of the Ohio case and outline ten critical ways to help prevent an outbreak and spread of bird flu.
Related Article: OSHA Issues Hazard Alert for Avian Flu
Related Article: OSHA Updates Guidance for Animal Slaughtering and Processing Industry
Understanding the Ohio Case
The confirmed case in Ohio marks a significant development in the ongoing battle against avian influenza. Since the beginning of 2024, the U.S. has confirmed 69 human cases of HPAI across 11 states, including one fatality in Louisiana, with multiple cases linked to exposure in commercial agriculture operations or wild birds.
Ohio has reported cases of HPAI (bird flu) in poultry and dairy herds since the outbreak began in 2022. Fortunately, there have been no confirmed cases of human-to-human transmission of the virus to date.
In light of this recent case, Ohio health officials urge poultry farm workers and commercial operators to implement stringent biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of avian flu. These measures are crucial in protecting both workers and the broader community.
Symptoms and Spread of Bird Flu
In humans, symptoms of bird flu can range from mild to severe, typically appearing within 3 to 7 days of infection.
Mild symptoms may include eye redness (conjunctivitis), mild flu-like upper respiratory issues, fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue.
More severe symptoms can include high fever, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, pneumonia, altered mental status, and seizures. Less common symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Bird flu spreads to humans through direct contact with infected live or dead poultry, wild birds, or contaminated surfaces, with the virus entering the body through inhalation of virus particles or by touching the eyes, nose, or mouth after contact with contaminated objects.
Fortunately, human-to-human transmission is rare.
See USDA’s Guidelines to Prevent Avian Influenza at Your Farm.
Read CDC’s Publication on Information for Workers Exposed to H5N1 Bird Flu.
See CDC’s Publication on Bird Flu in Animals and People: Causes and How It Spreads
Severity of Human-to-Human Infection of Bird Flu
Human-to-human transmission of bird flu is extraordinarily rare, with no sustained transmission observed, meaning that while limited instances of person-to-person spread have occurred, they do not lead to ongoing outbreaks among humans; the overall risk to the general public remains low.
10 Key Points to Prevent Bird Flu Outbreaks
To effectively prevent bird flu outbreaks and minimize the risk of human infection, consider the following ten key points:
- Avoid Direct Contact: The primary recommendation from health officials is to avoid direct contact with wild birds, sick poultry, or dead animals. This includes refraining from touching or handling birds, especially if they appear ill or are deceased.
- Report Sick or Dead Birds: Anyone who encounters a sick or dead bird is urged to contact local health departments or veterinarians for guidance before handling them. This allows for proper investigation and safe disposal of potentially infected birds.
- Implement Strict Biosecurity Measures: Poultry farm workers and commercial operators must adhere to strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and spread of the virus. This includes controlling access to poultry houses, disinfecting equipment and vehicles, and providing protective clothing for workers.
- Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Workers who may come into contact with poultry or potentially contaminated environments should wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, masks, and eye protection. Proper training on the use and disposal of PPE is essential.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water is crucial, especially after contact with birds or potentially contaminated surfaces. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can also be used when soap and water are not available.
- Monitor Poultry Health: Poultry farmers should closely monitor their flocks for signs of illness, such as decreased egg production, respiratory symptoms, or sudden death. Prompt reporting of any suspected cases to veterinary authorities is essential for timely intervention.
- Control Wild Bird Access: Measures should be taken to limit wild bird access to poultry houses and feed storage areas. This can include using netting or screens to prevent birds from entering buildings and properly storing feed to avoid attracting wild birds.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Adequate ventilation in poultry houses can help reduce the concentration of airborne viruses. Proper ventilation also contributes to the overall health and well-being of the birds.
- Cook Poultry Thoroughly: It remains safe to consume properly cooked poultry and pasteurized dairy products. The CDC recommends cooking poultry, eggs, and meat to their proper internal temperatures to eliminate bacteria and viruses.
- Stay Informed: Staying informed about the latest developments and recommendations from health authorities is crucial. This includes monitoring updates from the CDC, state health departments, and agricultural agencies.
– See OSHA’s Publication on Avian Influenza.
– See CDC’s Interim Guidance for Employers to Reduce Exposure to Avian Influenza A Viruses for People Working with Animals.
Key Takeaways
The probable human case of bird flu in Ohio serves as a harsh reminder of the ongoing threat posed by avian influenza. By understanding the risks and implementing the preventative measures outlined above, we can collectively work to protect poultry workers, the broader community, and the food supply from the devastating impacts of bird flu outbreaks.
Continuous vigilance, adherence to biosecurity protocols, and prompt reporting of suspected cases are essential in mitigating the spread of this virus and safeguarding public health.
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