Bird Flu update: Animal infections rise, human risk remains low

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s latest update on H5N1/bird flu infections shows ongoing spread among animals, but a low risk to humans.

As of July 15, 13,638 wild birds have been infected, while 1,075 dairy herds and 174,833,348 poultry have been affected as of July 18.

Compared to the previous update in June, these numbers represent a less than 4% increase.

To date, there have been 70 confirmed human cases of bird flu in the U.S., with one case reported in Missouri.

The Cape Girardeau County Health Department advises that the risk of “spillover” infections to humans remains low but recommends safety precautions for those with direct exposure to infected animals, such as farmers and hunters.

For more information and safety tips, visit H5N1 Q&As | Cape Girardeau County Public Health.