California Declares State of Emergency Due to Avian Flu Outbreak in Dairy Cattle

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency following an outbreak of avian influenza (H5N1) affecting dairy cattle across the state. This decision comes after the detection of 645 infected herds, primarily in California's central agricultural region.

Current Situation

Since March 2024, the H5N1 virus has been identified in over 600 dairy farms in California. The situation has escalated with recent cases appearing in the southern part of the state, prompting authorities to intensify control measures to prevent the spread of the virus to densely populated areas such as Los Angeles and San Diego.

Human Cases in the United States

Nationally, 61 human cases of avian flu have been confirmed across 16 states, primarily among agricultural workers who had direct contact with infected animals. Recently, the first severe case was reported in Louisiana, where a man over the age of 65, who had been in contact with infected poultry, remains in critical condition.

Measures Taken

The emergency declaration allows for a faster and more coordinated response, facilitating the mobilization of resources and implementing strict sanitary measures to control the outbreak. Authorities have suspended the distribution of raw milk from affected producers and increased monitoring efforts at dairy and poultry farms.

Risk to the Population

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have indicated that while the risk of human infection remains low and no person-to-person transmission has been observed in California, it is essential to maintain surveillance and follow health recommendations to prevent further infections.

Impact on the Dairy Industry

California, the leading milk producer in the United States, with approximately 1.7 million dairy cows, is facing significant challenges due to this outbreak. Infection among cattle has led to the suspension of non-pasteurized dairy products, raising concerns among producers and consumers.

Conclusion

The state of emergency declared in California underscores the severity of the avian flu outbreak in dairy cattle and the urgent need for immediate measures to contain its spread. Authorities urge the public to remain informed and adhere to health guidelines to protect public health.