Bird Flu Is Spreading: What You Need To Know

SUNDAY, Feb. 2, 2025 (HealthDay News) -- A rapidly-spreading H5N1 avian influenza, otherwise known as bird flu, has been devastating bird flocks and showing signs of spreading to other mammals.

Since 2022, more than 147 million birds in the U.S. have been affected. Already this year, more than 5 million egg-laying chickens have died, and cases have been detected in dairy cows, cats, zoo animals and even people.

So, what does this mean for you? Dr. David Cennimo, an infectious disease specialist at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark, breaks down what people need to know about bird flu and how to stay safe.

What exactly is bird flu?

Bird flu is a type of influenza that primarily infects birds but can sometimes jump to other species. The H5N1 strain is the biggest concern right now. It’s similar to human flu viruses like H1N1 and H3N2, but it rarely infects people and has not been shown to spread from person to person.

How do people get it?

So far, fewer than 70 human cases have been reported, and most were in people who had close contact with sick birds or infected dairy cows. The virus can spread through direct contact with sick animals or their droppings.

Is it safe to eat poultry, eggs and dairy?

There is no known risk from eating poultry or eggs, because cooking kills the virus. There have been reports of sick cats who are believed to have been infected from raw pet food. Raw milk from infected cows could pose a risk, though more research is needed.

Who's at risk?

Anyone who works closely with sick birds or livestock. Like human flu, bird flu can be more severe in young children, older adults or people with underlying health conditions.

How do you know if you’re infected?

Symptoms are similar to traditional flu and include fever, cough and upper respiratory issues. Some cases have also reported pink eye (conjunctivitis).

How can you protect yourself?

To reduce your risk, avoid contact with sick animals and use protective equipment if necessary. Always cook poultry and eggs thoroughly, and choose pasteurized dairy products.

More information

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updates on the bird flu. 

SOURCE: Rutgers University-New Brunswick, news release, Jan. 24, 2025