CDC uncovers bird flu transmission in cattle and humans
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Recent findings from the CDC indicate a small increase in bird flu infections among humans, linked to unnoticed transmission in cattle. Analysis of blood samples from 150 veterinarians who interact with cattle nationwide revealed that three tested positive for H5N1 antibodies, suggesting they had been exposed to the virus. The presence of the H5N1 variant in dairy cattle is currently under review to assess its potential impact on public health. While the risk remains low for the general population, the CDC advises ongoing caution and preventive measures for individuals with high exposure to livestock.
Source
Leonard J, Harker EJ, Szablewski CM, et al. Notes from the Field: Seroprevalence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5) Virus Infections Among Bovine Veterinary Practitioners — United States, September 2024. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2025;74:50–52. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7404a2
Additional Reading
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/02/13/cdc-bird-flu-spread/
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/06/health/cdc-bird-flu-cats-people.html