The latest report from the CDC sheds light on new findings about avian influenza A (H5N1) infections in veterinarians working with cattle. During an analysis of blood samples from 150 bovine veterinarians across the U.S. and Canada, three individuals tested positive for H5N1 antibodies. None of them showed symptoms, and at least two had no known exposure to infected animals. One of the cases was particularly surprising, as the veterinarian worked in Georgia and South Carolina—states that haven’t reported any infections in cattle. This raises concerns that the virus might be spreading undetected in some areas. However, experts emphasize that the overall risk to the general public remains low.

Protective measures in veterinary care are under scrutiny after the study revealed that while the infected veterinarians used gloves and clothing covers, they did not wear respiratory or eye protection. Given that the virus has been found in high concentrations in milk from infected cows, exposure through the respiratory tract, eyes, and gastrointestinal system poses a real risk. The outbreak first surfaced in dairy cattle in March 2024, with the first human cases identified among dairy farm workers a month later. This latest discovery further underscores the need for better preventative measures for those working closely with livestock.

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