The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released an official advisory on Tuesday, June 2, warning health workers and clinicians of the potential for infection in humans caused by the H5 avian flu virus.
As of June 2, the H5 avian flu virus has ravaged poultry producers in the Midwest, affecting 20 states and forcing the slaughter of 45 million birds. The virus has struck egg-producing chickens particularly hard, creating not only a shortage, but higher egg prices at the supermarket.
Between December 15, 2014 and May 29, 2015, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed over 200 flocks of birds infected with the very pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A (H5N2), (H5N8), and (H5N1)[1] viruses, according to the official CDC Health Advisory.
Again, noting that there have been no indications of human infection from HPAI H5 viruses, the CDC does say their appearance in American birds increases the chance of human infection.
The CDC also points out that human infection with other avian flu viruses, including a different HPAI (H5N1) virus found in Asia, Africa, and other parts of the world; HPAI (H5N6) virus; and (H7N9) virus, has been associated with severe, sometimes even fatal illnesses.
People who have close or prolonged contact with infected flocks while not wearing protective equipment, those people in direct physical contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with feces or virus while not wearing protective equipment, or people in close proximity to infected birds, or visiting a live poultry market are all considered to be at risk of possibly becoming infected with the avian flu virus.
The CDC now considers these newly-identified HPAI H5 viruses as having the potential to cause severe disease in humans. This is why the CDC is asking that physicians consider the possibility of avian flu in any patient presenting with signs or symptoms of respiratory illness and who have relevant exposure history.
This directive, in general, means that people should avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead birds and any materials contaminated with the virus. The CDC also suggests that poultry workers should wear the recommended protective equipment when in direct contact with sick or dead birds, and when going into buildings with sick or dead birds.
