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Public health officials in Denver, Colorado, recently reported that a dairy farm worker has tested positive for avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu. This case marks the fourth human infection linked to dairy herds in the U.S. since the virus was detected in cows earlier this year.

The patient, an adult male, experienced mild symptoms, including conjunctivitis, and has since recovered following antiviral treatment.

Rising Human Infections Linked to Dairy Herds

The infection of the Colorado worker follows three previous cases among dairy farm employees who contracted bird flu. The first two reported cases involved mild conjunctivitis, while the third case exhibited mild respiratory symptoms. These cases show the occupational hazard for workers in direct contact with infected dairy cows.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed these cases and maintained that, despite the low overall risk to the general public, individuals with exposure to infected animals face a higher risk of infection.

Widespread Animal Outbreak

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), avian flu has been confirmed in cattle at 139 farms across 12 states, with Colorado accounting for 27 outbreaks. The spread of H5N1 bird flu among farm animals, including poultry and cattle, poses significant challenges for agricultural and public health sectors.

The CDC emphasizes that although human infections are rare, the virus can transmit to individuals who are in close contact with infected animals.

Vaccine Development and Protective Measures

In response to the growing threat, efforts to develop effective vaccines are underway. On Tuesday, biotechnology company Moderna was awarded a $176 million government contract to advance its human bird flu vaccine. Concurrently, the USDA is pursuing research on a potential bird flu vaccine for cattle, aiming to eradicate the virus from dairy herds without relying solely on vaccination.

Preventative measures for those working around potentially infected animals have become a priority. The CDC advises farm workers to wear protective gear, including coveralls, NIOSH-approved respirators, goggles, head covers, boots, and gloves, to reduce the risk of transmission.