Evaluating the Risk to Poultry & Dairy Farm Workers
According to Dr. Jamie Jonker, NMPF’s chief science officer, more than 1,000 dairy herds in 17 states have been infected with H5N1 since the jump from wild birds to cattle was first reported in March 2024. Scientists are now left to ponder the possibility of what comes next.
In January 2025, the US reported the first human death from bird flu. In the months since, there have been 70 reported human cases including 41 with exposure to dairy herds and 24 exposures related to poultry farms and culling operations. Though the current risk to the general population remains low, humans who are exposed to potentially infected animals are at moderate to high risk of infection. It is important to note that the general population is not known to have specific immunity against H5N1 virus.
Graphic Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
How Workers Are Exposed
According to the CDC, human exposure to the bird flu usually happens in one of two ways:
- Working with animals known to have, or are potentially infected with, avian influenza A viruses.
- Working with materials derived from animals, including raw milk, that are known to have or are potentially infected with avian influenza A viruses.
Those most likely to be exposed include:
· Farm Workers- poultry workers, dairy workers
· Other Working Environments- poultry culling, dairy laboratories, food processing, public health responders, slaughterhouse workers, veterinarians and veterinary staff, zookeepers, animal sanctuary workers, and wildlife rehab workers.
Human infections, such as viruses that cause H5N1 bird flu, are most prevalent when they find a pathway through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from splashes or smaller particles can also deposit on mucus membranes through inhalation. Additionally, infections can happen when the virus is transmitted by a person touching contaminated clothing and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Among dairy workers, those working in milking parlors have a high likelihood of exposure due to contaminated surfaces and fluids.
Protection Matters
The CDC reports the increased availability and usage of PPE can significantly reduce the likelihood of H5N1 bird flu exposure and transmission, especially for those who may have direct contact with animal secretions.
High Exposure Settings (Includes confirmed infections, dairy farms, poultry operations and raw milk processing)
In addition to NIOSH Approved® respirators and goggles, the CDC suggests the following:
Face Shields- To protect the worker from unexpected splashes
Full Body- Gloves, fluid-resistant protective clothing (including coveralls and aprons), boot covers, and head/hair coverings
Medium Exposure Settings
In addition to NIOSH Approved® respirators and goggles, the CDC suggests the following:
· Disposable Gloves
· Outer Work Gloves (added protection over disposable gloves)
PPE Options
Vanguard Safety boasts a strong portfolio of full-body PPE options designed to safeguard workers against spills, liquid splashes and other contaminants. For more information on how Vanguard Safety products may benefit your organization, please reach out to one of our sales representatives to begin your facility need evaluation.