Around the world, wild birds contract avian influenza, more commonly known as bird flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The virus creates outbreaks in chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese and cows. In 2024 and 2025, many dairy and poultry workers have contracted bird flu, and people with no ties to the dairy or poultry industries are starting to contract the virus as well.
On Jan. 6, 2025, CNN reported that the first person in the U.S., a Louisiana resident who had been exposed to backyard and wild birds, died from bird flu. The CDC emphasized Jan. 8, 2025 that the public health risk was still low, but the organization was monitoring the situation and helping states monitor people who have been exposed to dairy and poultry animals. As of Feb. 5, 2025, the 2024-2025 bird flu virus outbreak has not spread to any person in Indiana or Kentucky, although all 50 states have seen outbreaks in poultry.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, farmers, disease control workers, pet store employees, veterinarians, zookeepers and research laboratory employees are among the groups of people most at risk of contracting bird flu.
People can contract bird flu if they are exposed without protection to birds or animals that have the virus. The virus can enter the body through the eyes, nose or mouth.
Prevention
To lower your risk of contracting bird flu, make sure to properly cook all poultry and avoid exposure to:
- Dead birds or animals
- Animal waste
- Raw milk and raw animal products
- Materials that animals with suspected or confirmed bird flu have touched
If you must encounter the above animals or objects, wear gloves and personal protective equipment.
It is also recommended to get your annual flu shot. While the flu vaccine does not specifically protect against bird flu, it can help boost the immune system and reduce your chances of being infected with both seasonal flu and bird flu at the same time.
Symptoms
The CDC reports that bird flu symptoms can include:
- Fatigue
- Headaches, muscle and body aches
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater
- Pinkeye
In severe cases, bird flu can cause:
- Seizures
- Reduced consciousness
- Difficulty breathing
- High fever
- Brain inflammation
- Sepsis
- Pneumonia
- Multi-organ failure
UofL Health is Here for You
If you develop flu symptoms, visit a UofL Physicians – Primary Care location or call 502-588-4343 to find a primary care provider near you. Our Primary Care offices accept many types of health insurance and have self-pay options. Several of our offices are accepting new patients.
If your flu symptoms are severe, visit a UofL Health – Urgent Care Plus location. If your symptoms are life threatening, dial 911.
