Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects birds but can also be transmitted to humans. The virus typically spreads through contact with infected birds or their droppings.
This particular case in Colorado serves as a reminder of the importance of monitoring and controlling infectious diseases, especially those with zoonotic potential. Zoonotic diseases are those that can be transmitted from animals to humans, posing a significant public health threat.
The first two agricultural workers infected in the United States, in Texas and Michigan this spring, also reported eye symptoms. 
The man is an employee at a dairy farm who had exposure to infected cattle and recovered after antiviral treatment, officials said.
U.S. since avian flu was confirmed in cows in March. The prior three people to test positive were also dairy farm workers who recovered.
The first two workers to contract the virus had mild pink eye. In the third case, the worker had mild respiratory symptoms.
On Tuesday, Moderna (MRNA.O), opens new tab was awarded a $176 million government contract to advance development of its human bird flu vaccine.
USDA is conducting its own research as well as soliciting information from about two dozen companies on a potential bird flu vaccine for cattle, although the agency has said it hopes to eliminate the virus from dairy herds without the use of a vaccine.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the new infection “does not change” the agency’s assessment that the risk to the general public remains low. Surveillance systems tracking flu in the U.S. have shown no unusual activity, officials said. However, people with prolonged contact with to infected birds or other animals, including livestock, or to their environments, are at higher risk of infection.
The Colorado man was being monitored when he developed symptoms because of his work with dairy cows, according to the CDC. Tests at the state level were inconclusive, but samples sent to CDC tested positive. Full results of genetic analysis of the sample are pending.
The Colorado Department of Agriculture has been working on a state response to the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak since 2022. CDA has been coordinating with state and federal partners, including CDPHE and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to confirm and respond to cases. Avian flu is a reportable disease in Colorado and must be reported to the State Veterinarian’s Office. CDA has also adopted an Emergency Rule that requires mandatory testing of lactating dairy cattle moving interstate. More information about CDA’s response to the outbreak can be found at ag.colorado.gov/HPAIresponse.
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