A backyard poultry flock in San Mateo has detected the H5N1 bird flu virus, local officials announced Tuesday. The detection is a reminder of the risk of transmission to people who live near, work with or handle poultry.
The outbreak began in the US in 2023 and has affected millions of birds, including those in commercial flocks and backyard flocks like San Mateo’s. Sixty-seven human cases have been reported, mostly among agricultural workers who came into contact with sick birds or cows, with one fatality.
There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission, and health officials consider the risk to the general population low. The virus primarily spreads through infected saliva, nasal secretions, and feces from wild birds, particularly waterfowl.
California is currently the epicenter of the outbreak, accounting for most infected cattle and birds over the past 30 days. Backyard poultry owners are advised to wash their hands before and after handling birds and disinfect footwear to reduce the risk of transmission.
According to Koren Widdel, San Mateo County’s agricultural commissioner, simple actions can be taken to prevent the spread of H5N1. Infected milk from dairy cows is also a possible source of contamination, as many workers reported pinkeye-like symptoms.
Bird flu has a high mortality rate in birds and a mild impact on humans, with most people experiencing only mild symptoms.
Source: https://www.sfchronicle.com/health/article/bird-flu-backyard-poultry-flock-san-mateo-20149342.php