Two human cases of the H5N1 virus, also known as avian flu or bird flu, have been confirmed in San Joaquin County, public health officials announced on Friday.
The cases occurred in farmworkers with known exposure to infected animals. Both of the farmworkers have had mild symptoms and are recovering, according to public health officials.
There have been 34 confirmed human cases of avian flu in California this year.
People who handle birds, poultry or cattle are at higher risk for H5N1 and should follow safety precautions, including wearing recommended personal protective equipment when working in close contact with these animals, public health officials said.
“We have an abundance of dairy farms in our county and want to ensure that these farmworkers can do their important work as safely as possible by using (personal protection equipment),” said Dr. Maggie Park, San Joaquin County’s public health officer. “We are also encouraging the public to avoid consuming raw milk or raw eggs and not to handle any dead birds. Our agency is working closely with numerous county and state partners to continue monitoring the status of H5N1 cases.”