Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a State of Emergency in California to accelerate the response to Avian influenza A (H5N1), or Bird Flu, after the virus was detected in dairy cows on farms in Southern California.
While no human-to-human transmission of Bird Flu has been reported in California, nearly all infected individuals have had direct contact with infected cattle. In response, California has set up the largest testing and monitoring system in the U.S. to track and contain the outbreak in dairy cows.
The State of Emergency grants state and local agencies more flexibility in staffing,
contracting, and regulatory actions, enabling them to more effectively manage statewide response efforts. The state’s comprehensive approach aims to protect workers and the public while preventing the spread of the virus.
California is actively addressing the threat of Bird Flu on dairy cattle and poultry farms through a coordinated, cross-agency response involving local, state, and federal entities. The coordinated efforts focus on minimizing exposure to farm workers, preventing contamination of raw dairy products, and reducing the virus’s spread.
“The risk to the general public remains low. There have not been any human cases of
bird flu in Santa Barbara County at this time and we are closely monitoring the
situation.” said Dr. Henning Ansorg, Public Health Officer. “Out of an abundance of
caution, we are asking residents to consume only pasteurized dairy products and to
take additional precautions if working with birds or other animals.”
Prevention
- Avoid contact with infected animals: People should avoid direct contact with
wild birds and other animals infected with or suspected to have bird flu. Wild
birds can be infected with bird flu even if they don’t look sick. - Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) if you must work with infected
animals: If you work with infected animals and must have direct/close contact,
wear recommended PPE, such as: respirators (N95 masks), eye protection (face
shields or safety goggles) and gloves. - Get the seasonal flu vaccine: CDPH recommends that all Californians — especially workers at risk for exposure to bird flu — receive a seasonal flu vaccine. Although the seasonal flu vaccine will not protect against bird flu, it can decrease the risk of being infected with both viruses at the same time and reduce the chance of severe illness from seasonal flu.
- Only consume pasteurized dairy products: Do not touch or consume raw milk
or raw milk products, especially from animals with confirmed or suspected bird flu
infection. Pasteurized milk and dairy foods are safe to eat. - Avoid feeding pets raw milk or raw poultry: Cat owners in particular should
take additional precautions to avoid feeding raw poultry and raw milk to their pets
since cats may be susceptible to bird flu and may be at risk of serious illness or
death if infected. Contact your veterinarian for guidance if your pet is exhibiting
flu-like symptoms.
The Public Health Department remains vigilant in preventing the spread of disease and
is committed to protecting the health and safety of the community.