Everything you need to know about the avian influenza
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Q: What is avian influenza?
Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can sometimes infect humans and other animals. It is caused by influenza A viruses, with subtypes such as H5N1 and H7N9 being the most concerning for human health.
Q: How is avian influenza transmitted to humans?
Human infections typically occur through direct contact with infected birds, their droppings, or contaminated surfaces. While human-to-human transmission is rare, certain mutations could potentially increase this risk.
Q: What are the symptoms of avian influenza in humans?
Symptoms range from mild (fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches) to severe (pneumonia, respiratory failure, multi-organ failure). Some cases can be fatal, particularly with H5N1 and H7N9 strains. According to data from the CDC in January 2025, there have been 67 confirmed human cases of H5N1 bird flu in the United States since 2022 and one reported death.
Q: What are the risks of a human pandemic from avian influenza?
Currently, bird flu still poses a relatively low risk to humans, especially if they are not in the livestock industry or raising backyard chickens. However, with the increasing number of avian influenza infections in bird and mammalian populations, there is an increased likelihood of dangerous mutations that could facilitate human-to-human transmission.
If such mutations occur, a pandemic could potentially lead to millions of people infected worldwide. Currently, treatment options are limited, primarily involving supportive care, as specific antiviral treatments are not widely available or may be ineffective against certain strains.
Q: How can people reduce their risk of infection?
Avoiding contact with sick or dead birds, implementing strong biosecurity measures for poultry, and cooking poultry products thoroughly can help prevent infection. Farmworkers in Idaho and other affected areas should wear protective gear.
Q: How does avian influenza affect poultry and flocks in Idaho?
Idaho has experienced multiple outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild and domestic bird populations. Backyard flocks have been impacted, including a confirmed case in Jerome County as of January 2025. The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has been monitoring the spread and encouraging poultry owners to report sick or dead birds.
Q: Is it still safe to eat poultry products?
Yes, if you like eggs and poultry do not worry about eating these foods. Sick animals are not allowed to be used in our food system in the United States. Plus, properly cooking your meat and eggs to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit would kill any virus that may be present.
Q: What is the risk to backyard chicken owners?
Individuals raising backyard chickens in Idaho face potential risks, as the virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated equipment. While human infections remain rare, poultry owners should practice strict biosecurity, such as limiting flock exposure to wild birds, disinfecting equipment, and avoiding direct contact with sick birds.
Q: How has avian influenza affected cattle in Idaho?
In an unexpected development, avian influenza has been detected in dairy cattle in Idaho. As of 2025, 34 outbreaks in dairy herds have been confirmed, raising concerns about the virus’s ability to infect mammals. The United States Department of Agriculture has ordered testing of the nation’s milk supply to ensure safety.
Q: What surveillance and control measures are in place in Idaho?
Surveillance efforts in Idaho involve collaboration between state and federal agencies.
The Idaho State Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, monitors wild and domestic bird populations. The United States Department of Agriculture has implemented milk testing and outbreak containment measures, while the CDC has provided funding to support vaccination efforts for farmworkers exposed to infected animals.
Dr. Richard Nathan is an infectious disease specialist who has helped patients treat and manage complex illnesses in Idaho for more than 20 years. He is also currently the President of the Idaho Medical Association.
This column does not establish a provider/patient relationship and is for general informational purposes only. This column is not a substitute for consulting with a physician or other health care provider.
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