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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning following a case of bird flu in a Texas dairy farm worker, highlighting the potential risks for those working in the farming industry. The worker contracted H5N1 bird flu, and was not adequately protected with respiratory or eye gear, leading to him developing an eye infection known as conjunctivitis. The affected person reportedly had exposure to cattle which exhibited symptoms akin to infected animals at a nearby farm where the virus had been confirmed.
This outbreak, which signifies the first incidence in cattle, has already impacted 36 dairy herds spread across nine states. While transmission of bird flu from animals to humans is unusual, this marks the second recorded case of human infection in the U.S. The virus’ spread across various mammal species raises concerns regarding the potential for a global pandemic if wide-scale exposure amongst humans is allowed.
The CDC urges those interacting closely with sick birds, livestock, and contaminated surfaces to use suitable protective gear. Analysis by the U.S. Department of Agriculture suggests the virus had been present in U.S. dairy cows for approximately four months prior to its reporting on March 25. However, preliminarily tests indicate milk, baby formula, and other dairy products are still safe for consumption.
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