Building the Future of Biodefense

Recommendation: This case of an avian influenza infection in a domestic cat underscores the need for organizations to maintain their preparedness plans. Organizations should follow the recommendations provided in the PHC analysis on 1/10, including lowering barriers to seasonal flu vaccines for their employees.

Situation: Washington health officials reported that a domestic outdoor cat in Grant County tested positive and died from highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5) after having contact with a dead wild bird. There were no human infections linked to the cat. Officials urged pet owners, especially those with outdoor animals, to take precautions to limit contact with wild birds and contaminated environments. Since the avian influenza outbreak began in 2022, 149 domestic cats in the US have tested positive, including 4 cats in Washington linked to raw pet food, making this the state’s 1st confirmed cat infection associated with exposure to an infected wild bird. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: The primary impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in commercial flocks is the increased cost of eggs or poultry products when outbreaks become more widespread. Organizations sensitive to egg and poultry prices should have a contingency plan for price volatility. PHC recommends that continuity plans be reviewed and updated in preparation for high-consequence infectious disease threats.

Situation: Japan reported a suspected case of HPAI on a quail farm in Asahi City, Chiba Prefecture, affecting around 108,000 birds. Elsewhere, in Taiwan, officials reported 2 instances of improper procedures related to avian influenza detections in birds. In Taichung City, reports of a large number of dead chickens due to avian influenza at a farm led to an investigation, which found that the business owner failed to report the incident proactively. In Miaoli County, 235 H5N1-infected chicken carcasses were abandoned at a drainage ditch in Houlong Township. The illegal disposal is suspected of violating the Animal Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Act, prompting an investigation. Improper disposal of avian influenza-infected carcasses poses environmental and health risks, including increased human exposure to H5N1. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Heat is the top killer among extreme weather events, and the heat wave in Victoria, Australia, is a reminder to review plans for such events. Organizations should provide adequate cool water, frequent rest breaks, and shade or a cool rest area for employees working outside. Organizations should consider providing flexible scheduling options, especially for outdoor workers or workers commuting by transit modalities that lack air conditioning. Organizations may wish to include cooling tips in their wellness communications.

Situation: Victoria health officials issued a health advisory due to a rare heatwave event. Officials stated that heat-related illness kills more Australians than any other natural disaster and can affect anyone, especially older adults, young children, pregnant women, people with health conditions, and those who are socially isolated. Extreme heat can cause serious or fatal conditions like heat exhaustion, heatstroke, heart attack, or stroke, and worsen existing illnesses. Officials urged the public to stay cool and hydrated, plan to avoid extreme heat, and recognize early warning signs. The source link provides guidance on how to prepare and stay healthy. [Confidence: Very High]