LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) reports a new case of influenza A (H5) in a farmworker exposed to infected cows. This marks the second case in Michigan, with no elevated risk to the public. The worker, now recovering, received prompt antiviral treatment. This worker was employed at a different farm than the case announced on May 22.Â
The outbreak, linked to influenza A (H5N1), is monitored by state and local health authorities. Infections are rare and occur in those with direct contact with infected animals. Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian emphasizes the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) for farmworkers to prevent infection.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) supports farms with additional PPE and urges proper use to safeguard workers. Seasonal flu vaccinations are recommended for farmworkers to minimize the risk of concurrent infections.
For more information and updates, visit Michigan.gov/influenzaA.