FRANKLIN COUNTY, Wash. – Four agricultural workers at a commercial egg farm have tested presumptively positive for avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu.
These cases are the first presumed human instances bird flu under investigation in Washington.
“Cases of highly parthenogenic avian influenza have been reported in several states across the country. As part of its role to protect the public health of Washingtonians, the public health system works with partners to monitor and mitigate any novel or zoonotic diseases that can impact the health of others,” the Washington State Department of Health said.
According to the department, the Centers for Disease Control considers the risk of avian flu to the general public low, but people who handle birds for a living should always wear protective equipment to mitigate the potential spread of the ailment.
