Tests identify H5N9 avian flu at California duck farm

Category: Health

Highly pathogenic H5N9 avian flu has been detected in US poultry for the first time at a duck farm in California, leading to the culling of nearly 119,000 birds. The outbreak, which began on November 23, 2024, also saw the presence of H5N1. Experts warn of the potential for reassortant viruses due to the nature of ducks as hosts. Additional H5N1 outbreaks have been reported across multiple states, raising concerns over egg shortages and further spread.

Keywords: H5N9, avian flu, poultry outbreak

Source: CIDRAP

Update At: 1/28/2025

Related Sources

KDHE: Tuberculosis outbreak in Kansas now largest in U.S. history

The Kansas City, Kansas metro tuberculosis outbreak is the largest in U.S. history, with 67 active cases and 79 latent cases reported as of January 2025. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is coordinating care and treatment, while the CDC monitors the situation. The outbreak began in January 2024, with two reported deaths in 2024. KDHE emphasizes the low risk of infection to the general public and the importance of treatment to prevent further spread.

hays Post

Case of bird flu confirmed in farm worker

A person working on a farm in the UK contracted the human version of avian flu after close contact with infected birds. The individual is currently well and has been admitted to a specialized unit. The UK Health Security Agency confirmed that the risk to the public remains very low, and there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission. The government has implemented new biosecurity measures in response to an outbreak in Shropshire, where all bird owners must house their animals and follow enhanced precautions.

BBC News

H5N9 bird flu outbreak: New virus strain detected on California farm

A new highly pathogenic strain of bird flu, H5N9, has been confirmed on a duck farm in California, leading to the culling of nearly 119,000 birds. Health officials are investigating the outbreak, which poses potential risks to public health, although the current risk to the general public remains low. The H5N1 strain has already caused human infections and fatalities in the U.S., raising concerns about the transmission of avian influenza to humans.

KTVU San Francisco

Bird flu in El Paso – what we know so far El Paso bird flu: What to know after cases confirmed-

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was detected in captive wild birds in El Paso, marking the first cases in over two years. The birds, a goose and a red-tailed hawk, were submitted by a private group. Texas Parks and Wildlife confirmed no human cases of bird flu in El Paso, but advised monitoring for symptoms in exposed individuals. The outbreak has affected poultry flocks and dairy cattle across Texas, with low risk of human infection.

El Paso Matters

Pennsylvania’s first case of bird flu in domestic poultry found in Lehigh County

The first positive case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in domestic poultry was confirmed in Pennsylvania in 2025, affecting a 50,000-bird layer chicken flock. A state and federal task force is working to contain the virus, which poses no risk to the public as poultry products are safe to eat when cooked properly. The case marks the first detection in commercial poultry since February 2024, with no infections reported in dairy cattle or humans in the state.

NBC 10 Philadelphia

First case of bird flu detected in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, poultry farm, officials say

Veterinarians warn that cats are at a higher risk of contracting bird flu due to recent outbreaks in poultry farms. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture confirmed a case of bird flu on a commercial poultry farm, prompting biosecurity measures. While poultry products remain safe if cooked properly, pet owners are advised to keep their cats away from sick birds to minimize risk.

KDKA

UK reports H5N1 in a poultry worker

The UK reported its first human H5N1 avian flu infection since 2022, linked to close contact with sick birds on a farm. The patient is stable and under care. The HSA emphasizes low public risk and ongoing monitoring of contacts. Birds on the affected farm are being culled, and biosecurity measures are being reinforced across the country.

CIDRAP

Bird flu outbreak strikes poultry farm in California

The U.S. has reported its first outbreak of the H5N9 bird flu strain in poultry at a duck farm in California, raising concerns over its potential impact on both animal and human health. The outbreak has prompted increased surveillance and biosecurity measures, as the strain poses risks of severe disease and zoonotic transmission. The situation is complicated by the mild symptoms often exhibited by infected ducks, which can facilitate the virus's spread. Experts emphasize the need for vigilance and preparedness in managing avian influenza outbreaks.

Quartz

New strain of bird flu detected in Merced County

A new strain of bird flu has been detected at a commercial duck farm in Merced County, California, leading to the euthanization of nearly 19,000 infected birds. The virus has been spreading since last December, with 67 confirmed human cases nationwide, including one death. Experts emphasize the need for better surveillance and communication to manage the outbreak effectively.

ABC30 News

Kansas officials say tuberculosis outbreak is largest on record in US history

Kansas is experiencing the largest tuberculosis outbreak in US history, with 67 active cases and 79 latent infections reported since 2024, primarily in Wyandotte and Johnson counties. State health officials emphasize a low risk to the general public and are collaborating with local agencies to manage the outbreak. Tuberculosis can be active or latent, with active cases being contagious and treatable with antibiotics. The CDC highlights that certain populations are at higher risk and recommends testing for those individuals.

The Guardian