Increased symptoms lead to heightened concerns. - A third individual has contracted bird flu.
In connection with the ongoing outbreak of the virus in dairy cattle, workers in Michigan might have contracted the virus while carrying out their duties. The first case of this kind happened in April in Texas, and it has always been the cows who transmitted the virus to humans.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) asserts that the overall risk for people who do not interact with infected animals is quite low.
Nevertheless, they also indicated that this marks the first instance where individuals reported symptoms of acute respiratory illness associated with influenza virus infection. Earlier cases only had mild symptoms such as conjunctivitis.
The Recent Instance "was Not a Shock"
Unlike in Europe, American farmers are allowed to use ground chicken manure as feed for their livestock, which poses a potential risk for bird flu. It is also suspected that the pathogen spreads through cow udders or milking equipment connected to the animals.
The American authorities, on the other hand, suspect wild birds for the infection of cows. Since Michigan is actively testing agricultural workers, the emergence of another case is not surprising.
Apart from using protective gear, it is advised to avoid close contact with sick or deceased animals, bird excrement, and nesting materials, and refrain from drinking unpasteurized milk.
