The World Health Organization (WHO) reassured the public on Tuesday that the risk of human infection from H5N1 avian influenza remains low despite 76 reported cases globally in 2024. The majority of these cases were in farm workers, particularly in the U.S., where outbreaks have affected poultry, wildlife, and even dairy cattle.
WHO’s Maria Van Kerkhove emphasized that while the risk to the general public is minimal, farm workers and those directly exposed to infected animals face a “low-to-moderate” risk, depending on protective measures like personal protective equipment (PPE). She also highlighted that the H5N1 virus remains avian, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Addressing concerns about food safety amid dairy cattle infections, she recommended consuming pasteurized milk or boiling milk to ensure safety. She also advised thoroughly cooking meat and eggs in areas affected by outbreaks.
Despite the evolving nature of the virus, WHO reassured that no significant human-to-human transmission has been identified so far, urging continuous monitoring and investigations to prevent any future risks.
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