The United States has seen an increase in cases of H5 bird flu, also known as avian influenza. This disease has gained attention due to its spread across wild birds, poultry, dairy cattle, and even a small number of human cases in the U.S. While there are currently no recorded cases in the state of Tennessee, it’s important for families to stay informed about the situation, particularly regarding the safety of children.

What is H5 Bird Flu?

H5 bird flu is a type of influenza that affects birds but can occasionally spread to other animals, including dairy cattle and humans. Since early 2024, the U.S. has seen several outbreaks in poultry flocks, widespread infections in wild birds, and a growing number of cases in dairy herds across several states. There hasn’t been human-to-human transmission of the H5 flu, but the virus has affected workers in the dairy and poultry industries because of their direct exposure to infected animals.

As of October 2024, there have been 27 reported human cases of H5 bird flu in the U.S., with 16 of those cases confirmed to be the H5N1 strain, which can potentially cause severe illness in humans. Thankfully, none of these cases have been in Tennessee, but the situation could turn if people aren’t cautious.

How Can It Affect Children?

While children have not been confirmed as infected so far, they are at a higher risk due to their developing immune systems. The chances of getting infected increase if a child spends time on farms, lives near areas with wild bird populations or comes into contact with poultry or dairy cattle.

Parents should monitor their children’s interactions with wild birds, domestic animals, and potentially contaminated surfaces, especially if they visit rural areas or farms. The CDC advises avoiding direct contact with birds and animals that may be infected and practicing proper hygiene, such as handwashing, after being outdoors.

If your child does come into contact with an infected animal, some common symptoms will appear:

● Fever

● Cough

● Sore throat

● Muscle aches

● Shortness of breath

In severe cases, bird flu can lead to complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, organ failure, or even death. Parents should seek medical help if their child shows any symptoms, particularly after possible exposure to birds.

Vaccines Part in Protecting Children

While no routine vaccine for bird flu is available to the general public, specific vaccines have been developed for strains like H5N1, which are used in outbreak situations or for high-risk populations. Vaccination is essential for bird flu and preventing the spread of other diseases during outbreaks.

Researchers are continuously developing new vaccines that could provide broader protection against bird flu viruses. Parents can help strengthen their children’s immune systems by getting the seasonal flu vaccine. This precautionary measure will reduce the risk of seasonal flu and potential complications if they are exposed to other viruses like bird flu.

Why is All This Important to Know?

It is important for parents to read and understand the current situation, as it will provide essential knowledge to protect their children from potential exposure to H5 bird flu. While the current public health risk is low, simple preventive measures — such as avoiding contact with wild birds, handling food safely, and practicing good hygiene — can reduce the chances of infection.

Parents can also help protect their children by staying aware of how the virus spreads, especially if they live in rural areas, visit farms, or are near wildlife.

Should We Be Worried?

For now, the risk to the general public, including children, remains low. Continuous surveillance data shows no unusual flu activity, and there has been no evidence of person-to-person spread of H5N1. In Tennessee’s agricultural community, managing animal health is crucial. Tennessee is not only one of the top beef-producing states; its agricultural production represented 4.4 percent of the total state GDP in 2022. Families need to do what they can to ensure this disease doesn’t spread on their farms and through their family groups.

Sources:

CDC: H5 Bird Flu: Current Situation

U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Updates on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

U.S. Department of Agriculture: Avian Disease

University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture: Economic Impact of Agriculture