Need for More Testing of Bird Flu Among Farm Workers in the US

Dr. Nirav Shah, principal deputy director of the CDC, wants more testing for bird flu among farm workers in the US but is cautious about damaging trust. The risk is low for the general public but elevated for agricultural workers in contact with animals. Only 44 people have been tested in 2024. Some states are testing dairy farm workers' blood for antibodies. Officials encourage the use of personal protective equipment and are monitoring the virus's spread among farms.