Avian Influenza: What Do You Need to Know About H5N1

A highly pathogenic avian influenza has affected dairy cows in eight states across the United States. Federal officials are raising concerns that the virus, also known as H5N1, may continue to spread and they are advising the healthcare sector to remain vigilant, prepared, and informed. On April 5, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an advisory containing detailed recommendations for clinicians, including isolation and notification steps if a patient presents symptoms compatible with avian flu.

A positive case was identified in a dairy worker on a farm in Texas on April 1. The worker is experiencing mild symptoms. While the CDC believes the current risk of infection to the general public remains low, people with close, prolonged, or unprotected exposures to infected birds, cattle, or other animals are at a greater risk of infection.

Here is what you need to know about avian influenza

Community Health Centers are adept responders to emerging public health threats, as demonstrated by their work fighting COVID-19 on the front lines. They also care for nearly 1 million migrant and seasonal agricultural workers who may be at higher risk of infection. To help health centers stay informed, the CDC and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), have shared an updated guidance and underscore the importance of continuing to build on the relationships health centers established during the pandemic.

If a patient presents with signs and symptoms that are compatible to avian influenza A virus infection, the CDC and HRSA also advises health centers to:

• Maintain the appropriate infection control and prevention measures and use appropriate PPE
• Contact their local/state health department to arrange for testing and sample collection
• Isolate patient and begin empiric antiviral treatment as soon as possible

In light of the updated guidance, maintaining preparedness is vital to keeping patients and staff safe. By staying informed and vigilant we can help safeguard our communities from potential from this virus and other emerging public health threats.

Additional avian influenza resources

https://www.cdc.gov/ncird/whats-new/human-infection-H5N1-bird-flu.htmlhttps://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/h5/worker-protection-ppe.htmhttps://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/avianflu/protect-yourself-h5n1.pdf