Combating the Persistent Threat of H5N1 Bird Flu in the U.S.

The H5N1 bird flu outbreak remains a top concern for U.S. agriculture and public health, though the latest data suggest declining rates in both animal and human cases. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports a total of 70 confirmed and probable human H5 cases since 2024, with exposures mainly linked to dairy herds and poultry farms. California continues to lead in case numbers among both animals and people, followed by Colorado and Washington. While the risk to the general public remains low, the CDC is closely monitoring new exposures, particularly among agricultural workers.

According to the CDC, more than 18,000 people have been monitored for symptoms of bird flu since 2024, with a positivity rate of 18.8% among those exposed to dairy cows. The most vulnerable groups remain farm workers, in part because of limited access to diagnostic testing. The CDC also highlights that the first U.S. death associated with the virus was reported in Louisiana earlier this year.

Johns Hopkins Public Health notes there have been no new confirmed human cases in the U.S. since February 2025, and the overall level of transmission between animals—and from animals to humans—has dropped, aided by aggressive surveillance and control measures. However, experts stress there are significant gaps in surveillance, including a lack of at-home human testing for H5N1, making it possible that mild or asymptomatic cases could be missed.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture has confirmed that while virus activity persists, the number of new dairy herd infections is decreasing, with more herds being released from quarantine after successful recovery and ongoing monitoring.

Nationally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reports bird flu now detected in commercial and backyard flocks in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Estimated costs related to control measures and compensations since November 2024 have surpassed $1.4 billion, including over $1.25 billion in payments to affected producers. The virus has continued to circulate among wild birds and in isolated livestock outbreaks, putting ongoing pressure on the poultry and dairy industries.

Globally, the World Health Organization continues to observe sporadic outbreaks among wild bird and livestock populations, with heightened vigilance in regions with vulnerable poultry industries. While there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission, the potential for viral mutation remains a research priority.

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