By Scout Nelson
A recent serology study reveals that 7% of farm workers exposed to H5N1-infected cattle have antibodies indicating prior infection, prompting the CDC to expand its testing, prevention, and protective measures.
The study included 115 farm workers in Colorado and Michigan who had been exposed to H5N1-positive cows. Samples collected from June to August and tested by CDC scientists found that eight workers showed antibodies to H5N1.
Some workers recalled symptoms, such as conjunctivitis, but only one had worked directly with infected cows. Many tasks, including milking cows and cleaning barns, were done without respiratory or adequate eye protection.
In response to these findings, the CDC is broadening its testing recommendations to include asymptomatic workers exposed to sick animals. This proactive testing approach, as explained by CDC deputy director Nirav Shah, aims to catch more cases early, reduce the severity of illness, and prevent potential spread to others.
The CDC also updated its recommendations for preventive treatment with oseltamivir (Tamiflu) for asymptomatic workers with high-risk exposure, especially those lacking adequate PPE during tasks like culling and milking.
In a separate report, Colorado researchers studied PPE use among dairy workers at three farms with H5N1 outbreaks. They found that, although PPE was generally available, many workers did not consistently use protective gear.
Gloves and eye protection were widely available, but only 26% of workers reported using N95 respirators after the virus was detected in cows. Researchers noted that hot weather and humid conditions made respirator use uncomfortable, particularly in summer months.
The CDC’s enhanced guidelines highlight the importance of PPE, focusing on tasks that pose a higher risk, like milking and working with infected animals. As Shah noted, “This is an example of the CDC using data to drive actions,” with the goal of reducing H5N1 spread among farm workers and ensuring safer working conditions.
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Categories: Minnesota, General, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety