CDC latest news

May 20, 2024
This message includes updates on respiratory viruses from CDC.



CDC Responds to H5N1 Bird Flu
A multistate outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus has been detected in dairy cattle in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), state public health and animal health officials, and other partners continue to respond to this outbreak using a One Health approach.

H5N1 bird flu has been detected in unpasteurized (raw) milk samples collected from sick cattle on dairy farms during the course of the outbreak investigation. Based on current evidence from FDA, the commercial pasteurized milk supply is considered safe because the pasteurization process is effective in killing H5N1 bird flu. Additionally, milk from sick cows is diverted or destroyed. However, while the risk of consuming raw milk and raw milk products with live H5N1 viruses is not fully known, theoretically, it could infect people with H5N1 bird flu, which can cause serious disease. In general, raw milk and any products made from raw milk can be contaminated with germs that can cause serious illness, hospitalization, or death. Anyone, even healthy adults, can get sick from drinking raw milk. Make the best decision for your health and the health of your family by always choosing pasteurized milk and products made with it.

Get weekly updates from CDC: H5N1 Bird Flu: Current Situation Summary
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From Me, To You
As a new parent, you will share many things with your baby: your wisdom, your love, your excitement, and your joy. Getting recommended vaccinations while you’re pregnant helps your body create protective antibodies (proteins produced by the body to fight off illnesses) that you can pass on to your baby. These antibodies help protect your baby from several illnesses during their first few months of life. Help strengthen your baby’s immunity before they are even born. Talk to a healthcare provider you trust about the vaccines that are right for you during your pregnancy.
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PCR Tests Are the Most Reliable Type of COVID-19 Test
Testing for COVID-19 can help you decide what to do next, like getting treatment to reduce your risk of severe illness and taking steps to lower your chances of spreading the virus to others. If you are at higher risk for severe COVID-19, talk to your healthcare provider about PCR tests to avoid delayed diagnosis. Don’t delay: Treatment must be started within 5-7 days after you first develop symptoms.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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