The H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle in the United States does not only affect cattle. Epidemic infections that heavily impact agriculture and food production often have collateral damage on the people who work within and around the industry. It is important to know what biosafety and biosecurity guidelines are available. See the following links for resources to help keep people working with animals safe:
- Updated Interim Recommendations for Worker Protection and Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to Reduce Exposure to Novel Influenza A Viruses Associated with Disease in Humans | Avian Influenza (Flu) (cdc.gov)
- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus in Animals: Interim Recommendations for Prevention, Monitoring, and Public Health Investigations
- Information for People Exposed to Birds or Other Animals Infected with Avian Influenza Viruses | Avian Influenza (Flu) (cdc.gov)
It is important to be cognizant of personal wellbeing and mental health during times of major impacts to daily life. There are tools and resources available for people to reach out to in difficult times. Here are a few resources:
- https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/AgDevelopment/MentalHealthResources.aspx
- https://extension.umn.edu/courses-and-events/changing-our-mental-and-emotional-trajectory-comet-training
These resources and more can be found on WVDL’s HPAI/BIAV in Cattle FAQs page.
