The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is calling for expanded testing for bird flu after a study revealed that some dairy workers showed signs of infection even without exhibiting symptoms.
Employees on farms with bird flu, especially those in close contact with infected animals, are recommended to undergo testing and offered treatment, even if they are asymptomatic.
The big picture: A recent study conducted in Michigan and Colorado found that 7% of farmworkers tested positive for antibodies indicating previous infection with Type A H5N1 influenza.
- The CDC’s initiative aims to protect workers, prevent H5 transmission to humans, and reduce the likelihood of the virus mutating.
Go deeper: The CDC study highlighted the risk of the bird virus infecting more humans than previously identified, with nearly all cases traced back to contact with infected dairy cows or poultry.
- Experts have noted the significance of the CDC’s updated guidance, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent the virus from spreading and mutating dangerously.
- Challenges in monitoring dairy workers for illness include barriers such as farm owners and workers being reluctant to allow testing, hindering early detection and response efforts.
