QUARTERLY BEAT
APRIL 2026
CONCLUSION
HUMAN INFECTIONS AND PUBLIC HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS
H5N1 avian influenza is no longer just a poultry disease. Its rapid evolution, intercontinental spread, and ability to infect multiple mammalian species – including dairy cattle and domestic cats – highlight the interconnected nature of animal and human health. For veterinary professionals, this outbreak reinforces the need for vigilance. Animals presenting with acute neurologic, respiratory, or systemic signs, particularly in regions with known cases, should prompt consideration of HPAI. Early recognition, prompt reporting to USDA APHIS and state authorities, and strict biosecurity are essential to control spread and protect both animal and public health. Regular monitoring of animal health, awareness of local outbreak trends, and maintaining good biosecurity protocols can help minimize risk and improve outcomes for both commercial and companion animals. This outbreak also demonstrates the One Health principle, emphasizing the close links between animal, human, and environmental health. Cross-species transmission, viral reassortment, and occasional human infections – though currently rare and typically mild – highlight the importance of coordinated surveillance, preventive measures, and collaboration across veterinary and public health disciplines. Effective communication with clients and other animal health professionals is critical for rapid response and education on emerging risks. While eradication is unlikely, veterinarians are central to mitigation. Through careful observation, timely reporting, enforcement of biosecurity practices, and client education, clinicians can help manage this panzootic outbreak and safeguard the health of animals and humans who care for them. Proactive monitoring and preventive action remain the most effective tools for limiting the impact of HPAI across species.
As of December 2025, 71 human cases of HPAI H5-subtype influenza have been reported in the United States, most linked to exposure to dairy cattle or poultry: • 41 associated with dairy cattle exposure • 24 associated with commercial poultry • 3 associated with backyard poultry • 1 case (November 2025) identified as H5N5, the first globally reported human case of that subtype Most human infections are mild, commonly presenting as conjunctivitis. While media reports sometimes use the term “pandemic,” a true influenza pandemic requires efficient human-to-human transmission, which has not occurred with this H5N1 outbreak. This outbreak is more accurately described as panzootic due to it affecting multiple animal species across wide geographic areas.
PREVENTION AND VETERINARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Veterinary professionals play a key role in minimizing public health risk through surveillance, reporting, and biosecurity. HPAI is a reportable disease in all species, and suspected cases must be reported immediately to USDA APHIS Veterinary Services and the appropriate State Animal Health Officials. USDA APHIS Veterinary Services can be reached through your area veterinarian in charge or the Foreign Animal Disease Hotline (toll-free: 1-866-536-7593, available after hours and on weekends). State veterinary office contact information is also available online through individual state department of agriculture websites. These agencies provide guidance on suspected cases, assist with case management, and answer related questions as needed. High-quality surveillance is essential, particularly in high-risk populations. Veterinarians should implement and advise clients on strong biosecurity measures, including minimizing contact between domestic animals and wildlife, controlling animal movement, and avoiding raw milk or undercooked meats. Resources and guidelines are available from the USDA and AVMA for veterinary professionals to access and utilize for client education.
ABBREVIATIONS:
• HA: hemagglutinin • HPAI: highly pathogenic avian influenza • LPAI: low pathogenic avian influenza • NA: neuraminidase
KEY PREVENTION PRINCIPLES:
• Robust surveillance in both animal and human populations • Strict biosecurity practices for all animal operations • Avoidance of raw milk and undercooked meat • Prompt reporting of suspected cases
24 VETGIRL BEAT EMAGAZINE
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