Bird Flu on the Rise: What It Means for You and How Legacy Can Help

As bird flu cases increase, concerns are growing for public health and the agricultural industry. Avian influenza, or bird flu, primarily affects wild birds but can spread to domestic poultry—and in rare cases, humans.

At Legacy Community Health, we’re committed to keeping you informed and protected. Our team provides up-to-date information, essential resources, and access to care to help individuals and families stay safe in the face of emerging health threats.

What is H5N1 Bird Flu?

H5N1 is a highly pathogenic strain of bird flu, meaning it can cause severe disease and spread rapidly among birds. It has been detected in wild birds, poultry, and, most recently, dairy cattle across the United States. While human infections remain rare, several cases have been reported among dairy and poultry workers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the situation to assess any potential risks to public health and stay ahead of any developments.

“H5N1 differs from seasonal flu in that it primarily infects birds, but when it does jump to humans, it can lead to severe complications. The good news is that, as of now, there is no sustained human-to-human transmission,” says Dr. Natalie Vanek, a Legacy expert in infectious diseases.

Understanding Bird Flu: What You Need to Know

How does H5N1 differ from other flu strains, and why is it considered more dangerous?

H5N1 is not your typical seasonal flu. Unlike the flu viruses we see every year, H5N1 primarily infects birds. However, when it does jump to humans, it can cause severe illness. The good news is that it does not spread easily between people.

Are there any early warning signs that someone may have contracted bird flu?

Early symptoms of bird flu can mimic the common flu—fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches—but can escalate quickly to severe respiratory distress and pneumonia. Some people also experience eye infections or conjunctivitis. If you’ve had exposure to infected birds and develop symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

What should someone do if they suspect exposure?

If you’ve had close contact with infected birds—whether through working with poultry or visiting a live bird market—it’s important to keep an eye out for symptoms. Should you develop a fever or cough within 10 days, contact your doctor right away. Antiviral medications like Oseltamivir can be effective, but they are most effective when started early.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

The CDC and other health organizations recommend the following preventive measures to minimize the risk of exposure:

• Avoid Direct Contact with Wild Birds and Poultry: Observe birds from a distance and avoid handling sick or dead birds.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly after being outdoors, especially if you have been near birds or animals.
• Do Not Consume Raw or Unpasteurized Dairy Products: Pasteurization kills harmful viruses and bacteria in milk.
• Properly Cook Poultry and Eggs: Ensure all poultry and egg products are cooked to a safe internal temperature to eliminate potential contamination.
• Use Protective Equipment: Individuals working with poultry or livestock should wear gloves, masks, and other personal protective equipment to reduce exposure.

Are there risks for pet owners?

Yes. Cats, for example, have been known to contract H5N1 after eating infected birds. If you have pets, keep them indoors and away from wild birds. Also, never feed pets raw poultry or unpasteurized dairy products.

What about city residents?

For most people in urban areas, the risk is very low. However, it’s still a good idea to:

• Avoid handling sick or dead birds.
• Wash your hands regularly.
• Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly—no runny yolks.
• Stay informed about any local outbreaks.

What Treatments and Vaccines Are Available?

The main treatment for H5N1 is antiviral medication like Oseltamivir or Zanamivir. These work best when taken within the first 48 hours of symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization and breathing support may be needed.

While seasonal flu vaccines don’t directly protect against H5N1, they are still important. They can reduce the severity of illness and lower the risk of co-infection with another flu virus, which could make bird flu more dangerous.

Researchers are also working on new vaccines, including an mRNA vaccine similar to the COVID-19 vaccines. Some promising candidates are being tested, but they are not yet widely available.

What Legacy Community Health is Doing to Help

Legacy Community Health offers seasonal flu vaccinations, which, while not a direct protection against bird flu, can help reduce co-infection risks. Additionally, Legacy provides education and resources to those who may be at higher risk of exposure, such as farm workers and individuals in rural areas.

“While we haven’t seen any confirmed cases at Legacy, we are prepared to respond quickly. Our focus is on education, early detection, and ensuring that at-risk communities have access to medical care,” says Dr. Vanek.

Dr. Desai adds, “If you’re worried about exposure, contact your local health department and/or your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on what to do next, where to get tested, and how to stay protected.”

Stay Informed and Take Action

Bird flu remains an evolving situation, and Legacy Community Health is here to provide the latest updates and guidance. “The key to reducing risk is awareness and preventative action,” emphasizes Dr. Desai.

By staying informed and taking preventive measures, you can help protect yourself and your communities from potential health risks.

For more information or to schedule a vaccination, visit our website or contact your nearest Legacy Community Health clinic.