WHAT TO KNOW
- H5 bird flu is widespread in wild birds worldwide and is causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows with several recent human cases in U.S. dairy and poultry workers.
- While the current public health risk is low, CDC is watching the situation carefully and working with states to monitor people with animal exposures.
- CDC is using its flu surveillance systems to monitor for H5 bird flu activity in people.
According to the CDC, symptoms of bird flu (avian influenza A) in humans can range from mild to severe. Symptoms include:
- Eye redness: Also known as conjunctivitis, this is the most common symptom in recent U.S. cases
- Fever: A temperature of 100°F (37.8°C) or higher
- Cough: A cough may be present
- Sore throat: A sore throat may be present
- Runny or stuffy nose: A runny or stuffy nose may be present
- Muscle or body aches: Muscle or body aches may be present
- Headaches: Headaches may be present
- Fatigue: Fatigue may be present
- Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing may be present
Less common symptoms include: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.
In severe cases, complications like pneumonia or organ failure can occur.
If you’ve been exposed to bird flu, you should monitor yourself for symptoms for 10 days after your last exposure. You should also report any symptoms to your local or state health department.
According to the CDC, humans can contract bird flu through direct contact with infected birds or other animals. This can include:
- Breathing in the virus
Inhaling contaminated respiratory droplets or dust
- Touching contaminated surfaces
Touching bedding, feed, or water contaminated with waste from infected animals
- Getting the virus on your skin or clothes
Getting splashed by a liquid that has the virus, or touching contaminated clothes
- Working with infected animals
Working with infected wild or domestic animals, or drinking raw milk from infected animals
