SOUTH DAKOTA (KELO) — H5N1 bird flu, also known as avian flu, is spreading in farm animals, such as poultry and cows.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says though it is rare, bird flu can infect people who are around these animals.
On Wednesday, it was reported that a farm worker in Colorado had been infected with bird flu, with the growing outbreak linked to dairy cows.
Colorado dairy worker tests positive for bird flu, fourth person linked to outbreak
Bird flu was confirmed at a South Dakota farm in April of this year. It was also confirmed in herds in three other states the same day.
Avian flu confirmed in South Dakota dairy herd
If you work around farm animals, how can you protect yourself? The CDC recommends wearing protective gear around poultry, dairy cows or other animals such as:
- Coveralls
- NIOSH approved respirator
- Goggles
- Head cover
- Boots
- Gloves
To learn how the bird flu virus spreads and what symptoms you should watch out for: https://bit.ly/4c4CpXz
