New HPAI case in Colorado brings recent total to 13

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recently confirmed five new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza among poultry workers in Weld County, Colorado. These new cases bring the total number of human HPAI cases in the United States to 13 since April, with 10 of these cases occurring in Colorado.

On July 19, the CDC confirmed two new cases of HPAI in individuals who were involved in the depopulation of infected poultry on a farm in Weld County. A few days later, on July 25, three additional cases were confirmed at a separate commercial egg layer operation in the same county. One of these three cases had been reported earlier by the state as a presumptive positive on July 20.

Prior to this year, there had been only one confirmed human case of HPAI in the United States, which occurred in 2022 and also involved a poultry worker in Colorado. The recent cases highlight the continued risk to poultry workers and the need for vigilant monitoring and response measures.

State and local health officials are actively monitoring poultry workers who have been exposed to infected birds. To support the state’s response to the ongoing HPAI outbreaks, the CDC has deployed a multidisciplinary, bilingual field team to Colorado. According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, approximately 118 individuals in the state have been tested for HPAI.

In light of two instances where the dairy H5N1 strain has spilled over into commercial poultry facilities in Colorado, the Colorado Department of Agriculture has implemented mandatory statewide surveillance for commercial cow dairies. This measure aims to prevent further spread of HPAI.

Despite the new cases, the CDC asserts that the risk of H5N1 to the general public remains low. Genetic analysis of the virus has not revealed any significant mutations, and there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. This ongoing genetic monitoring is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of commercial H5 tests and guiding public health strategies.

The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely and collaborates with state and federal agencies to manage the outbreaks. Their efforts are focused on containing the spread of HPAI and safeguarding both public health and the poultry industry.

Related: Expert delves into the complexities of HPAI and milk consumption