Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu Spreads to Livestock

The avian bird flu has affected multiple states, with clusters reported among poultry workers in Colorado, dairy cows in Idaho, Michigan, and Oklahoma. In Colorado, workers contracted the H5N1 virus after culling chickens without protective gear, prompting CDC investigations and fears of potential mutations. Despite the outbreak, the CDC has not recommended vaccinating livestock workers against the disease. Federal agencies are actively involved, with investments in vaccine development and monitoring efforts to contain the spread. In Idaho, dairy farmers face economic impacts, while in Michigan, the virus is detected in various animals, posing challenges and prompting biosecurity measures to prevent further spread.