Bird Flu Posted on August 7, 2025February 27, 2026 H5N1, also known as bird flu, has been circulating in California since 2022 and is present in the Bay Area. While the risk of infection in people is low, those who are routinely in close contact with birds or dairy cows should take steps to protect themselves from exposure. Bird flu has been detected in a local backyard flock. While there are currently no human cases of H5N1 from this instance, San Mateo County’s Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures is advising backyard poultry owners to watch for signs of avian influenza in their flock and to take appropriate biosecurity measures such as washing hands before and after handling birds and disinfecting footwear to reduce the risk of spreading bird flu. What can you do? People who have job-related or recreational exposure to infected animals, such as wild birds, poultry and dairy cows or products from infected animals, are at greater risk of being exposed to H5N1. These people may include farmers or workers on poultry and dairy farms, slaughterhouse workers, workers handling milk or other animal products, backyard bird flock owners, veterinarians and veterinary staff. These people should: Follow all recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for worker protection to reduce the risk of infection, including wearing personal protective equipment when appropriate. Call your doctor if you feel sick. Symptoms of H5N1 bird flu can include cough, sore throat, fever and red or watery eyes. Others who have close contact with these types of animals, animal products or the surrounding areas should also consider wearing PPE such as an N95 mask, gloves and eye protection. While the current risk to the general public from H5N1 bird flu is low, the CDC recommends: Do not drink unpasteurized (raw) milk or prepare or eat raw milk products like raw cheese. Raw milk and cheese have not been pasteurized to kill disease-causing germs. Avoid unprotected exposures to sick or dead animals, including wild birds, poultry and other domesticated birds. Handling sick or dead animals safely requires personal protective equipment and training. San Mateo County Health continues to work with the San Mateo County Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures to make sure the local agricultural industry has information and guidance.