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Three people who help raise poultry at a farm in northeastern Colorado have tested positive for avian influenza, the state health department and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, the latest cases of a multistate outbreak that affects poultry and dairy cattle.
The workers reportedly contracted the virus through direct contact with infected birds at a commercial egg operation. They had mild symptoms, including conjunctivitis or pink eye and difficulty breathing, but none were hospitalized, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environmental Protection. press release Friday.
At the state's request, the CDC is sending a team to support the outbreak investigation.
“State public health officials have collected additional samples from symptomatic workers, which will be tested over the weekend,” the Colorado agency said. So does the CDC he said. Conducts verification tests on samples.
The CDC says the risk assessment for the general population is low. “There is no indication of an unexpected increase in flu activity in Colorado or other states where H5 bird flu has been reported in cattle and poultry,” he said.
four people He has tested positive for bird flu in connection with previous ongoing outbreaks in the US: one in Colorado, one in Texas and two in Michigan. Colorado's agriculture industry has been hit hard by bird flu, Gov. Jared Polis Proclaim Disaster Emergency July 5 to ensure the state can provide support and resources to farms in Weld County.
Chicken products are still safe to eat if handled and cooked properly, says the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environmental Protection. The CDC recommends that everyone avoid close or prolonged exposure to sick or dead animals, animal kennels, or bedding. Experts advise against using unpasteurized or raw milk as it can be contaminated.