The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has officially declared an end to its emergency response to the H5N1 bird flu outbreak. The emergency, which began on April 4, 2024, was deactivated on July 2 following a noticeable drop in animal cases and no new human infections since February.
In an update posted to its website, the CDC announced that starting July 7, bird flu information will be integrated into its regular flu surveillance reports. This means that data on people being monitored and tested for the virus will now be published monthly, rather than weekly.
Meanwhile, updates on infections in animals — including poultry and cattle — will no longer come from the CDC but instead be posted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Bird Flu Risk Considered Low — For Now
The CDC has emphasized that there is no current evidence of human-to-human transmission of bird flu, and the overall public health risk remains low.
So far, there have been 70 reported human cases of H5N1 bird flu in the United States, including one fatality. Most of these cases were linked to direct contact with infected animals.
Why the Drop in Cases?
Experts suggest the current decline in bird flu activity may be due to seasonal patterns in migratory birds, which tend to carry and spread the virus. During the summer months, these birds are less active, reducing the likelihood of outbreaks.
However, Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News, remains cautious.
“I’m still concerned about H5N1 spreading through poultry and possibly to other species,” Siegel told Fox News Digital. “The current dip is seasonal, but we may see a resurgence in the fall.”
What to Know and How to Stay Safe
Although the risk is currently low, experts advise the public to stay informed and take basic precautions, especially in rural or agricultural areas:
- Avoid direct contact with wild birds or sick livestock.
- Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly.
- Wash hands regularly, especially after handling animals.
- Report any unusual sickness among birds to local authorities.
Conclusion
While the CDC’s shift in reporting suggests confidence in the current situation, health officials will continue to monitor for any signs of resurgence. As the fall migration season approaches, the public is advised to remain cautious and watch for updates from both the CDC and USDA.
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