United States: Recent findings show that 7% of tested workers on dairy farms with bird flu-infected cows have contracted the virus.
More on the Findings
Research indicates more workers have been infected by bird flu from handling sick poultry than expected—a trend veterinarians on these farms anticipated since the outbreak began in March.
This study is part of a collaborative investigation by the CDC and state health departments, including Colorado and Michigan.
New CDC Guidelines
In response, the CDC is broadening its testing and treatment guidelines for exposed farm workers.
Previously, the CDC only recommended testing if workers showed symptoms after exposure to infected cows. Now, officials recommend testing for all employees in contact with infected cows, even if asymptomatic.
The CDC also now advises that workers without symptoms who have been exposed to infected animals receive Tamiflu if protective gear was not worn.
The CDC’s Principal Deputy Director Dr. Nirav Shah highlighted high-risk exposure cases, such as raw cow milk splashing on the face.
Health Implications
Previously, only symptomatic workers were prescribed Tamiflu. Now, these revised guidelines aim to reduce infection risks and protect workers’ health. Each human case raises the risk of virus mutation, which could increase its severity.
Dr. Shah explained, “The less room we give this virus to run, the fewer chances it has to cause harm or mutate,” according to CNN Health. “Testing, identifying, treating, and isolating as many cases as possible in humans is key.”
The study surveyed 115 farm workers on exposure, symptoms, and PPE use. Blood tests indicated that eight workers had antibodies to bird flu, meaning they had been infected on the job. Four workers had mild symptoms, including eye redness, fever, stomach issues, diarrhea, and sore throat.