Protecting Farmworkers: HHS and USDA Focus on H5N1 Outbreak
In response to the outbreak of H5N1 in dairy cattle, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are working diligently to protect farmworkers and the public. While the risk to the general public is deemed low, farmworkers who come into close contact with infected animals are at a higher risk of infection.
Actions Taken to Ensure Farmworker Safety
The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) is providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to farmworkers through the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) to supplement commercial availability. Additionally, CDC is conducting genomic analysis of the H5N1 virus to identify any genetic changes that may impact its spread and severity.
Educating and Monitoring Farmworkers
USDA and HHS are actively engaging with farmworkers and rural health stakeholders to provide regular briefings and resources in multiple languages. CDC is also investing in targeted social media campaigns to educate farmworkers about the risks and protective measures against avian flu.
Tags: H5N1 outbreak, farmworker safety, CDC, USDA, HHS, avian flu, personal protective equipment, genomic analysis, education outreach, monitoring and surveillance.