Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has caused 71 confirmed human cases across 13 US states since 2024, with ongoing exposure through dairy farms and poultry operations. As of June 2026, cases have been confirmed in California, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Three cases involved unknown exposure sources. Two deaths have occurred. CDC considers current risk to the general public as low, but monitors closely for signs of person-to-person transmission.
Primarily through direct contact with infected birds or animals (dairy cows). No confirmed person-to-person spread in 2026 US cases.
Contagious Period: Not established for human-to-human; 3-5 days from symptom onset in avian cases
Global monitoring active. Updated from real-time surveillance data.
Real-time intelligence from global health monitoring and AI-powered surveillance
Data sources: BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies
Our AI-powered surveillance hasn't detected significant Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) activity in the past 30 days.
Real-time monitoring continues 24/7 across BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ global health agencies
Currently, Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) case counts are within baseline expectations globally. However, diseases can emerge rapidly, which is why continuous monitoring is critical.
Download the Virus Watcher app to get instant alerts if Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) activity increases in your region or travel destinations.
Even without active outbreaks, understanding Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) prevention helps protect you and your community:
Track Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) and 200+ other diseases with personalized alerts
Trusted information from leading health organizations
Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
View CDC Resources →Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization
View WHO Resources →Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-24
Get real-time alerts and intelligence on Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) and 200+ other diseases. Used by healthcare systems, EMS, schools, and travelers worldwide.
Open Web App Enterprise Solutions