H5N1 Bird Flu: Information for Employees and Employers
Bird flu outbreaks have been reported in wild birds, poultry, dairy cattle, and other animals in several states, including California. At this time, there is no known person-to-person transmission, and the public health risk remains low.
Though the current public health risk is low, Tehama County Public Health is working with the Tehama County Department of Agriculture and receiving guidance from the state to monitor the current situation.
What are the symptoms?
People infected with bird flu can have one or more of these symptoms: eye redness (conjunctivitis), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, trouble breathing, and fever. Bird flu can be serious and lead to hospitalization and/or death. However, the majority of infected persons so far in California have had mild illness.
Who is at risk?
- Dairy workers, especially those working with infected dairy cattle or unpasteurized or “raw” dairy products.
- Poultry workers, or those working with infected poultry, poultry products, or eggs. This may include those with backyard poultry flocks.
- Slaughterhouse workers, especially from facilities that process poultry or dairy cattle.
- Veterinarians, especially those working with ill dairy cattle or poultry.
- Those who have come in contact with wild birds.
How can producers protect themselves and their workers?
In a facility with animals that might be infected with H5N1 viruses, always wear PPE when working with animals or animal materials, including unpasteurized or “raw” milk. Currently recommended PPE includes gloves, face shields or goggles, disposable coveralls, N95 masks, and waterproof aprons.
Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly throughout the day and before eating. Avoid touching your face and mouth. Do not drink unpasteurized or “raw” milk. You could get sick from drinking unpasteurized milk from sick animals.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the seasonal flu vaccine. It is recommended that everyone receive the seasonal flu vaccine to prevent potential co-infections of seasonal flu and H5N1 bird flu.
How can I get PPE?
Please contact the Tehama County Department of Agriculture at (530) 527-4504 or Tehama County Public Health at (530) 527-6824.
What are the best practices for using PPE?
Use separate designated clean areas, one for putting on PPE and one for taking off PPE. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose after touching any contaminated material. Do not eat, drink, smoke, vape, chew gum, dip tobacco, or use the bathroom while in PPE. Use a glove-off protocol to ensure you don’t touch the exterior of gloves during removal. Always wash hands after removing PPE. Refer to the attached handout for instructions for how to put on and take off PPE.