For immediate release: October 20, 2024 (24-123)

First presumed human infections of avian influenza under investigation in Washington state

Workers developed symptoms after working with infected poultry

WHAT: Washington State is actively investigating the first presumptively positive cases of avian influenza in Washington after working with infected poultry at a commercial egg farm in Franklin County. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH), Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD), and Washington State Department of Agriculture (WA Agr) will be providing an update on the situation and what steps are being taken to mitigate the spread.

WHO: Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH, Washington State Secretary of Health
Dr. Scott Lindquist, MD, MPH, State Epidemiologist for Communicable Diseases, DOH
Dr. Beth Lipton, State Public Health Veterinarian, DOH
Sierra Knutsen, Surveillance and Investigation Manager, BFHD
Steven Kraeger, MD, Local Health Officer, BFHD
Representative from WA Dept of Agriculture (invited)

WHEN: Sunday, October 20 from 1 p.m.

WHERE: Virtual link for media only: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83344604549

WHY: Cases of highly parthenogenic avian influenza have been reported in several states across the country. As part of its role to protect the public health of Washingtonians, the public health system works with partners to monitor and mitigate any novel or zoonotic diseases that can impact the health of others.

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