Bird Flu Updates

Bird flu (avian influenza) is making the headlines again, and with every infectious disease in the news, it’s easy to feel concerned. But staying informed doesn’t have to mean feeling anxious– let’s focus on practical ways to stay aware and feel prepared.

The virus, which typically affects birds, has now been detected in dairy cows– and that’s raised concerns about whether it could impact milk, food safety, or even human health.

If you’ve seen the headlines, you might be wondering: What does this mean for kids and families? Is this something to worry about, or just panic headlines? Do we need to change anything about what we eat?

First– it’s nice to be aware but not be consumed by these headlines. While this is the first time bird flu has been detected in dairy cattle, public health experts agree that the overall risk to the general public remains low. 

At the same time, when new information about food safety, viruses, and public health comes up, it’s important to find accurate and reliable sources of information– so you can make informed choices that give you a sense of reassurance.

Here’s what’s happening, what experts are saying, the latest trends, and what parents actually need to know.

What’s happening?

Bird flu has been around for decades, but what’s different this time is that it’s no longer just affecting birds–it has now been detected in dairy cows in the U.S.

Here’s what we know so far:

• H5N1 (a strain of bird flu) has been confirmed in dairy cattle. This is the first time bird flu has been documented in U.S. dairy herds, which is why it’s getting so much attention.

• A small number of farm workers have tested positive, but their symptoms were mild, similar to regular flu. There is no evidence of sustained human-to-human spread.

• Public health agencies–including the CDC, USDA, and FDA– are closely monitoring the situation and stress that pasteurized milk remains safe.

• No changes have been made to food safety guidelines because the existing process of pasteurization is already highly effective at eliminating viruses like H5N1.

• The first U.S. Death from H1N1 was reported in Louisiana. While severe illness remains rare, this is an important development experts are monitoring closely.

Bird flu has been circulating in wild birds and poultry for years, sometimes spilling over into other animals. The fact that it’s now in dairy cows is new, but experts are watching closely to see if this changes the virus’s behavior or increases risks for humans.

At this point, the biggest concern is not that it will suddenly spread widely among people but rather how the virus might evolve. Scientists are keeping a close eye on any mutations that could make it more transmissible–or easier to spread.

Tracking the spread

Because this is the first time bird flu has been found in dairy cows, scientists, veterinarians, and public health officials are closely tracking how it spreads and whether any new risks show up.

How is the virus spreading?

• The H5N1 virus has been widely present in wild birds and poultry for years, but now it has been detected in dairy cattle. Bird flu has also been detected in domestic cats.

• The spread of this virus between mammals is thought to be rare but not impossible.

• Experts believe the virus spread to cows through contaminated water sources or exposure to infected birds–but investigations are ongoing to confirm how transmission is happening between cattle.

• While farm workers in direct contact with infected animals have tested positive, there is no evidence of human-to-human spread at this time.

What do the current numbers say?

As of March 2025, the CDC has reported 70 confirmed human cases of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S. Where are the cases coming from? 41 cases linked to dairy cattle, 24 cases from poultry farms and culling operations, 2 cases from exposure to wild birds or other animals, and 3 cases with unknown exposure sources.

The first U.S. death from H5N1 was reported in Louisiana, though severe illness remains extremely rare. 

The highest number of cases have been reported in California, Washington, and Colorado, with smaller case numbers in several other states (see above image).

Where can you track updates?

Here are trusted sources providing real-time updates:

• CDC H5 Bird Flu: Current Situation– Human cases, testing updates, and public health guidance.

• USDA Avian Influenza in Commercial and Backyard Flocks– Tracking outbreaks in poultry, cattle, and wildlife.

• HealthMap Avian Influenza Tracker– Interactive real-time map of outbreaks worldwide.

Understanding the risks

With bird flu now detected in dairy cows and farm workers, it prompts the question: How concerned should we be?

Right now, the risk to the general public remains low. However, health officials are continuing to monitor the virus for any changes. So far, most human cases have been limited to farm workers with direct exposure to infected animals, and there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human spread. For the general public, everyday activities–like grocery shopping or consuming pasteurized dairy and fully cooked poultry– do not pose a risk.

Scientists are closely monitoring H5N1 because viruses change over time. While it’s not currently spreading between people, mutations could make human transmission easier. Post-pandemics have originated from animal viruses, so tracking these changes helps public health officials stay ahead of potential risks. The virus has been detected in more mammals, which raises questions about how it adapts across species.

Public health officials are testing dairy herds and poultry farms to detect and contain infections early while also monitoring farm workers and high-risk groups for potential cases. There are CDC recommendations for the public, poultry, livestock workers, clinicians, and health departments to minimize the risk. These include precautions for those working closely with infected animals, guidance for healthcare providers, and continued surveillance efforts. Genetic sequencing is being conducted to track any changes in the virus that could increase risk to humans.

What parents can do

With all the information about bird flu, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But the good news is that for most families, daily routines don’t need to change. There are simple, practical steps parents can take to help their family stay safe.

• Stick to pasteurized dairy: pasteurization kills viruses like H5N1, so milk, cheese, and other dairy products are safe to consume. Avoid raw (unpasteurized) milk and dairy products, as they can carry bacteria and viruses.

• Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly: cook poultry to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to eliminate any potential viruses or bacteria. Fully cook eggs until both yolk and whites are firm– avoiding runny yolk is an extra precaution.

• Practice good hygiene: wash hands with soap and water after handling raw poultry, eggs, or visiting farms or zoos. Sanitize kitchen surfaces and utensils often and after preparing raw meat or eggs.

• Stay informed, but avoid panic: keep up with trusted sources for real-time updates. If kids ask about the bird flu, you can reassure them that food is safe to eat and scientists are working to keep people healthy.

The bottom line

Bird flu headlines can be concerning, but food safety measures– especially pasteurization and proper cooking–are already protecting families. While public health officials continue to monitor the situation, the overall risk to the general public is currently low.

The most important things parents can do? Stick to safe food practices, stay informed through trusted sources, and avoid unnecessary panic. Everyday choices–like choosing pasteurized dairy and fully cooking poultry–already provide strong protection.

On The Podcast

Every child deserves to feel understood and included! Teaching kids about neurodiversity early fosters empathy, reduces stigma, and helps them embrace differences. By normalizing accommodations and shifting perspectives, we create a more accepting world where everyone can thrive. 

Today, I’m joined by Laura Petix, a Neurodivergent Occupational Therapist, to discuss how we can build a future of true inclusion starting with ourselves and our kids.

We discuss: 

• How neurodivergent individuals, including children, experience the world differently due to variations in brain wiring. 

• That teaching kids about neurodiversity from a young age helps normalize differences, reduce stigma, and foster empathy.

• True inclusivity means creating environments where accommodations are normalized rather than seen as special exceptions.

On YouTube

Avoid these 5 common mistakes that could be holding your baby back! I share simple adjustments that can help their development thrive. The video covers:

• Is it okay to put my baby in an activity center?

• How much floor time does my baby need?

• Is face-to-face play important for my baby?

• How to help my baby with social development

• When can babies have screen time?

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Dr. Mona will answer these questions in a future Sunday Morning Q&A email. Chances are if you have a parenting concern or question, another parent can relate. So let's figure this out together!