Bird Flu FAQs: Other questions
Currently bird flu (also known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza or H5N1) is affecting dairy and poultry farms across the country. Agricultural workers are also getting sick from bird flu after exposure to infected animals. We describe common symptoms, transmission, and recommended safety precautions in this article.
We have received numerous questions about bird flu from agricultural workers, community leaders, and producers. We provide answers below and will update this resource as more information becomes available.
If birds are attracted to fruit and nut trees, do communities near these orchards need to worry about exposure due to the virus in the air?
There is not currently a high risk of exposure for the general public. Of the cases in poultry and dairy workers, exposure occurred from close contact with sick or dead animals. Scientists do not currently believe that the virus spreads well through the air.
Are dairy products still safe to eat?
Yes, pasteurized dairy products are safe to eat. However, raw milk has been shown to carry high levels of the virus that causes bird flu, and it can make you (and your animals) sick. The Food and Drug Administration has also been testing dairy products in stores. You can read more about the tests here.
Are eggs and poultry products safe to eat?
Poultry are often too sick to lay eggs and die quickly when they contract bird flu. Poultry for meat would also not be sold in stores if the birds were sick. As always, the safest way to eat eggs and poultry products is for them to be cooked thoroughly. You can read more here.
Can flies carry the virus?
Yes, research has shown that flies may be vectors for the bird flu virus. Studies have not found if flies can transmit the virus, though this is a possibility. More research is needed in this area.
How long does the virus live outside of a sick animal (e.g., in feces)?
The length of time bird flu virus can survive outside of a sick animal varies due to environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and UV light exposure. Because the survival of the virus varies extensively, it is difficult to provide a good answer to this question. Survival of the virus outside of an animal can be hours to months.
Does the seasonal flu vaccine prevent infection with bird flu?
No, but it is strongly recommended that everyone, especially agricultural workers, get the annual flu vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine can help you stay healthy, avoid missing work, and protect your family. The seasonal flu vaccine can prevent you from getting sick with both human flu and bird flu at the same time.
Is there a concern that crop workers could get bird flu?
The risk for people not working directly with poultry or dairy cows is low. However, cats and wild birds are frequently found on farms, and these animals can get sick or die from bird flu. Any dead cat or wild bird found at a farm should be disposed of while wearing flu PPE. Following disposal, wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Report dead wild birds and mammals to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Wildlife Mortality Reporting Website.
How can I bring this information to the community but not scare folks?
Providing accurate information to the community is important. It can be presented in a balanced way. Some positives include that most infections in people in the United States have been mild and that there is a treatment: prescription flu medicine. It is also important to be careful of myths and miscommunication.
Resources
- FAQs #1 and FAQs #2
- Safety messages (English / Spanish)
- Bird Flu Exposure Prevention – Employer Fact Sheet
- Bird Flu Information for Employers
- What Workers Need to Know About Bird Flu (English / Spanish)