(Also known as, H5N1, A(H5N1), HPAI, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, or bird flu)

UMN Health, Safety, and Risk Management is monitoring the evolving situation of the multistate outbreak of avian influenza A(H5N1) in dairy cows and poultry.

CDC recommends protective measures for workers who are exposed to infected or potentially infected animals, animal bodily fluids, waste, bedding or housing areas. 

HSRM is working with program managers and supervisors to identify individuals at UMN who may be occupationally exposed to animals and animal products listed below.

Susceptible animals and animal products of concern:

• Cows (or other ruminants) 
• Milking cows (or other ruminants) or handling raw milk
• Poultry or wild birds
• Barn/feral cats
• Other susceptible mammals as identified
• Other animal bodily fluids, waste or bedding from above listed animals

As a precaution, all employees with the potential to encounter dairy cattle, raw milk, and/or birds (wildlife and poultry) will proactively be enrolled in the Respiratory Protection Program should use of a respirator become required based on the risk assessment of each situation. Employees will receive further instruction on the enrollment process from their supervisors. 

Employees may choose to wear a respirator voluntarily at any time prior to completing the Respiratory Protection Program requirements if they wish. Voluntary users must complete Voluntary Use Respiratory Protection Training (UHS516 in Training Hub) and review the information from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) standard 1910.134 App D.  

June 20, 2024 Update on Respiratory Protection Program Enrollment

Morris, Crookston, or Duluth employees identified for enrollment into the Respiratory Protection Program were notified by email on June 20th.

Employees on these campuses that believe they should be enrolled but did not receive an email are to reach out to their supervisor. Supervisors can contact [email protected] with questions.

Twin Cities employees can expect information by email, by July 1.

Resources 

CDC

Reducing Risk for People Working with or Exposed to Animals | Bird Flu | CDC

H5N1 Bird Flu: Current Situation Summary | Avian Influenza (Flu)

HPAI Detections in Wild Birds - Avian Influenza

MDA

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Dairy Cattle | Minnesota Department of Agriculture

MN Board of Animal Health

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Response | Minnesota Board of Animal Health

UMash

Safeguard your farm: Protect you and your livestock from HPAI

Shield Yourself & Your Team from H5N1 with PPE

UMN Extension

Biosecurity for cattle operations | UMN Extension

Poultry biosecurity basics | UMN Extension