National health organizations report avian flu outbreak, increased risk for farm workers

Apr. 9—In late March, a Texas farmer contracted H5N1, widely known as the avian influenza virus. His only symptom was eye inflammation.

Traces of the flu was found in a handful of dairy farms, two in Kansas and two in Texas. Another case was reported on a Michigan farm that had taken in cows from Texas. One case was also detected in New Mexico.

Most recently, on April 2, the state department of agriculture identified traces of the virus on a dairy operation in Cassia County.

As of last week, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a total of 82 million reported cases of avian flu found in poultry. Nine thousand wild birds have been infected.

Despite the rise in cases amongst animals, the general risk of humans contracting the avian flu is very low, health officials say, but there is an increased risk for farmers who work with poultry.

The symptoms associated with avian flu range from mild to severe and can include diarrhea, fever, difficulty breathing, headaches, muscle pains, sore throat, nasal secretion and pneumonia.

There are no reported cases of the virus spreading from one human to another.

To protect yourself from the virus, as outlined by CDC, follow these guidelines:

— Refrain from traveling to countries where the flu is present.

— If you see a dead bird or other animal, observe them only from a distance.

— Only consume fully cooked eggs and meat.

— Avoid exposure from infected live or dead animals and contaminated surfaces.

If you come across a dead domestic bird, report them by calling the state department of agriculture at (208) 332-8540.

Report dead wild animals by visiting https://idfg.idaho.gov/d7/conservation/wildlife-health/add.

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