The latest report from the CDC sheds light on new findings about avian influenza A (H5N1) infections in veterinarians working with cattle. During an analysis of blood samples from 150 bovine veterinarians across the U.S. and Canada, three individuals tested positive for H5N1 antibodies. None of them showed symptoms, and at least two had no known exposure to infected animals. One of the cases was particularly surprising, as the veterinarian worked in Georgia and South Carolina—states that haven’t reported any infections in cattle. This raises concerns that the virus might be spreading undetected in some areas. However, experts emphasize that the overall risk to the general public remains low.
Protective measures in veterinary care are under scrutiny after the study revealed that while the infected veterinarians used gloves and clothing covers, they did not wear respiratory or eye protection. Given that the virus has been found in high concentrations in milk from infected cows, exposure through the respiratory tract, eyes, and gastrointestinal system poses a real risk. The outbreak first surfaced in dairy cattle in March 2024, with the first human cases identified among dairy farm workers a month later. This latest discovery further underscores the need for better preventative measures for those working closely with livestock.
One of the biggest takeaways from the CDC’s findings is the urgent need for more aggressive testing in dairy herds and bulk milk supplies. If infections are going unnoticed, veterinarians and farm workers could be at greater risk than previously thought. More widespread and frequent testing would help track the spread of the virus and provide an early warning system for potential outbreaks. The USDA already announced plans in October to expand testing efforts, but experts argue that stronger protocols are still needed to protect those handling cattle daily.
The findings also highlight the importance of workplace safety in animal health. Veterinarians and dairy farm workers need better protection, not just for themselves but also to limit the risk of the virus spreading further. More frequent testing, stricter safety protocols, and proper protective equipment should be the new standard. As the situation evolves, health agencies and agricultural workers must stay ahead of the virus to prevent a more widespread issue. While the general public is not at immediate risk, those in direct contact with livestock need to take this seriously. The virus isn’t going away, and without proper precautions, the problem could grow beyond what’s currently known.
