The H5N1 bird flu virus was found in four dairy farms in San Bernardino County, officials announced Thursday.
The risk of infection from H5N1 remains relatively low, and no person-to-person spread of the virus has been detected in the state, but health officials cautioned the public against consuming raw milk and sought to raise awareness about reducing the risk of exposure.
“While the risk of bird flu to the general public remains low, the detection of this virus in animals across multiple farms serves as a reminder to practice caution when handling animals or animal products,” San Bernardino County Health Officer Sharon Wang said in a statement. “It’s crucial to avoid raw milk consumption and follow proper food safety practices to reduce any potential risk of exposure.”
Bird flu symptoms usually appear within two to eight days after exposure, but may take up to 10 days and include eye redness or discharge, cough or sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, diarrhea or vomiting, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, difficulty breathing and fever.
County health officials advised residents to take these precautions:
- “Avoid consuming unpasteurized ‘raw’ milk and undercooked meat. Raw milk can contain harmful germs that may cause serious illness, particularly in children under 5 years old, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems. Choose pasteurized milk and dairy products, as the pasteurization process eliminates the bird flu virus.
- “Individuals who interact with infected dairy cows, poultry or wildlife are at greater risk of infection.
- “Wear protective clothing when working with birds, wildlife, livestock or their environments.
- “Refrain from working with sick animals or those exposed to avian influenza.
- “Wash hands frequently after handling animals or being in their environment.”
Officials also suggested that residents receive updated vaccines against respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19 and RSV, “particularly those at high risk, including pregnant individuals, to help protect babies who are born too young to be vaccinated. While these vaccines will not protect against bird flu, getting vaccinated can lower the risk of being infected with multiple infections at the same time.”
Hand washing and wearing masks in crowded settings was also suggested.
More information on H5N1 is available from the California Department of Public Health’s “Current Bird Flu Situation” webpage. For questions, officials said to contact the county health department’s Communicable Disease Section, 800-722-4794 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or 800-472-2376 after-hours and on weekends and holidays.
