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. Track Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) activity and outbreaks specific to Alaska.
Open Web AppH5N1 was first identified in humans in Hong Kong in 1997 during an outbreak linked to live poultry markets. Since 2003, it has caused numerous outbreaks in bird populations across Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe, leading to sporadic but often severe human infections and significant concerns for pandemic potential.
Avian Influenza H5N1 primarily spreads to humans through direct, prolonged contact with infected poultry (live or dead), their secretions (saliva, feces), or contaminated environments (e.g., surfaces in live bird markets). Human-to-human transmission is rare and has not been sustained, but close contact with an infected person might pose a limited risk.
Contagious Period: Varies by disease
Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance
Our AI-powered surveillance continuously monitors Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) activity across Alaska. We track data from state health departments, local hospitals, CDC reports, and 50+ global health sources to provide early warning of emerging threats.
Get instant push notifications when Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) activity increases in Alaska or your specific county.
For official state health alerts, vaccination locations, and public health guidance specific to Alaska, visit your state health department's website.
Whether you live in Alaska, are traveling there, or have family in the state, understanding Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) prevention is essential. Follow these evidence-based prevention measures:
If you experience symptoms of Avian Influenza H5N1 (Bird Flu) in Alaska, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.
Emergency symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Trusted information from leading health organizations
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
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