Sacramento County Public Health (SCPH) is actively monitoring the bird flu situation locally and coordinating with state and federal agencies. Photo courtesy of Sacramento County

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a State of Emergency on Dec. 18 in response to the ongoing H5N1 Avian Influenza (bird flu) outbreak. The declaration is designed to help state agencies respond more effectively by streamlining resources and operations.

“This emergency declaration ensures agencies have the tools needed to respond quickly,” said Dr. Olivia Kasirye, Sacramento County Public Health Officer. “The risk to the general public remains very low at this time, and we are working closely with state and local partners to monitor and manage the situation.”

Sacramento County Public Health is actively monitoring the bird flu situation locally and coordinating with state and federal agencies. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow precautions to protect themselves and their families.

Prevention Tips

Avoid contact with wild birds: Even if birds appear healthy, they can carry the bird flu virus.

Use protective equipment: If you work with animals potentially exposed to bird flu, wear N95 masks, gloves and eye protection.

Get the flu vaccine: While the seasonal flu vaccine doesn’t protect against bird flu, it can reduce the risk of severe illness and coinfection.

Stick to pasteurized dairy products: Do not consume or handle raw milk or milk products from animals suspected to be infected. Do not feed pets raw milk products. 

How Bird Flu Spreads

Human cases of bird flu are rare but can occur when someone has close contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces. Farmworkers and others who work closely with poultry or dairy cattle are at higher risk. No person-to-person spread of bird flu has been detected in California. 

Watch for Symptoms

If you’ve been in close contact with infected animals, monitor yourself for symptoms for 10 days. Symptoms include:

Fever, fatigue or body aches

Cough, sore throat or runny nose

Trouble breathing or chest discomfort

Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

Red or irritated eyes (conjunctivitis).

If you develop symptoms, isolate yourself immediately, contact Sacramento County Public Health to report the illness and work, and ask Sacramento County Public Health and your healthcare provider for guidance.

Bird Flu in California

Bird flu is spreading globally through wild bird populations, with outbreaks reported in poultry and dairy herds in the U.S. While human cases remain extremely rare, California health officials continue to work with local agencies to monitor and control the spread.

Sacramento County Public Health will provide updates as new information becomes available. 

For the latest details, visit California Department of Public Health bird flu webpage at cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Bird-Flu.aspx that is updated daily.