In a concerning development, California has reported two human cases of bird flu, both linked to contact with infected dairy cows. These cases bring the total number of bird flu infections in the U.S. to 15 this year, all involving individuals who had contact with livestock or poultry. Additionally, another person in Missouri tested positive despite having no immediate known contact with animals.

The detection of bird flu in cattle across 14 states, combined with human infections among farm workers, has raised alarms among scientists and federal officials about the potential risks to humans. While the virus typically spreads among birds, its presence in cows and subsequent transmission to humans underscores the potential for further spread.

The California Department of Public Health confirmed that there is no known link between the two infected individuals, suggesting that the transmission in these cases occurred through animal-to-human contact rather than person-to-person. One of the individuals, a dairy worker from the Central Valley, only experienced conjunctivitis (commonly known as pink eye) and is currently receiving antiviral treatment. The second individual, also from the Central Valley, experienced similar mild symptoms, including conjunctivitis, but neither reported respiratory issues or required hospitalization.

The infected cows at Central Valley dairy farms began testing positive for bird flu in late August. However, the California health department reassured the public that pasteurized milk and dairy products remain safe for consumption, as the virus does not spread through food that has been properly treated.

This incident highlights the growing concern over the virus’ ability to cross species barriers, and health authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further transmission.