WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently confirmed three additional human cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5), also known as H5 bird flu, in Northeast Colorado. These cases are linked to a second poultry farm in Weld County.
On July 20, Colorado announced one of these cases as a presumptive positive. The individuals affected were working directly with infected poultry at a commercial egg layer operation experiencing an outbreak of H5 bird flu.
All three people have reported mild illness. They have been offered oseltamivir, an antiviral drug, as treatment. State and local officials are closely monitoring poultry workers on farms with confirmed infections.
Increasing Human Cases
This is not the first farm in Colorado to report human cases of H5 bird flu. On July 19, the CDC confirmed two additional human cases at a different poultry farm, bringing the total to six at that location. With these new confirmations, Colorado now has nine human cases linked to current poultry outbreaks in the state.
Since April 2024, the United States has reported 13 human cases of H5 bird flu. Before 2024, the only reported human case of H5N1 bird flu was in April 2022, also in Colorado. Including that case, the U.S. total stands at 14 since 2022.
Low Risk to the General Public
The CDC currently assesses the risk to the general public from H5N1 as low. “Based on available data, we believe the risk remains minimal,” a CDC spokesperson said. However, the situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
These recent cases highlight the dangers of exposure to infected animals. There are no signs of increased flu activity in Colorado or other states affected by H5 bird flu outbreaks. Human infections with novel influenza A viruses are concerning due to their potential to cause severe, widespread disease.
So far, no genetic changes have been observed in the virus that would increase its likelihood of human-to-human transmission. The CDC continues to monitor the virus closely.
Continuous Monitoring and Recommendations
The CDC’s recommendations regarding the H5 virus remain unchanged. Ongoing investigations will help determine if any guidance adjustments are necessary. The CDC will review compliance with the recommended use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Historically, most human bird flu infections have occurred in individuals not wearing the recommended PPE.
The virus sequences from this outbreak will also be analyzed to determine if a change in risk assessment is warranted.
Safety Recommendations
The CDC advises people to avoid unprotected exposure to sick or dead animals, including wild birds, poultry, and other domesticated birds. Avoiding contact with animal feces, bedding, unpasteurized milk, and materials that have been in contact with infected animals is also recommended.
Supporting Colorado’s Response
A multidisciplinary, bilingual CDC field team is currently in Colorado to support the state’s response to the ongoing H5 bird flu outbreaks. Their efforts are part of a broader strategy to maintain the U.S.’s rabies-free status and ensure public health safety.
The CDC remains vigilant in its mission to protect the health of U.S. communities and animals. The confirmation of these additional cases underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance and preventive measures.
Mitigating the Spread
The recent confirmation of three additional H5 bird flu cases in Colorado highlights the ongoing risk to poultry workers. While the general public’s risk remains low, the CDC continues to monitor the situation and provide necessary updates. By adhering to recommended safety measures, the U.S. aims to prevent further spread and maintain public health.
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