The federal agency Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is continuing to monitor and respond to a multistate outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 (commonly known as bird flu) virus. H5N1 is widespread in wild birds worldwide and is causing outbreaks in U.S. poultry and dairy cows. As of July 14, 2024, there have been eight recent human cases in U.S. dairy workers in Texas, Michigan, and Colorado. Each case reported no severe symptoms. Avian influenza A(H5N1) viruses have only rarely been transmitted from person to person, but officials are taking precautions to mitigate transmission from animals to people.
This current outbreak has been circulating in wild birds around the world and was first detected in the U.S. in January 2022. H5N1 has also infected domestic poultry, including commercial and backyard flocks, as well as wild and domestic mammals. It was first identified in Washington State in a backyard flock in May 2022. Public health officials are working with local, state, and federal partners to monitor H5N1 in Washington. There are currently no confirmed or suspected cases in Washington State.
While the current risk to the public is low, farmers can take extra measures to reduce illness in their workers, animals, and neighboring farms that they may regularly interact with. People who own or have contact with poultry, livestock, or other animals should be aware of the risk of exposure to avian influenza so that they can take proper precautions and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Washington state has PPE in stock and can make it available to your farm upon request. Currently, available PPE includes disposable gloves, face masks, and eye protection including safety goggles, safety glasses, and face shields. This is a one-time provision of PPE. Should you have sick animals or a detection of H5N1 on your farm, this may serve as a stopgap until you can order more and in an ongoing way.
PPE is available on request for:
Dairy producers
Poultry producers
Milk processing facilities
Slaughterhouses
Facilities that routinely handle animals or animal products that might be infected with HPAI H5N1
Current available PPE includes:
Disposable gloves
Face masks
Eye protection - safety goggles, safety glasses, and face shields
Order PPE here.