Bird flu poses a threat to some farm workers. (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images). Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images
The CDC has launched a $5 million initiative to provide seasonal flu vaccines to farmworkers, aiming to prevent the emergence of a new influenza virus by reducing coinfection with bird flu (H5N1). This effort is targeted at livestock workers who are at higher risk due to their exposure to H5N1, which is prevalent among farmed and wild animals. The initiative aims to mitigate the theoretical risk of genetic reassortment, where two influenza strains could combine in a person, potentially creating a more dangerous virus. The flu vaccine, although not mandatory, will be made accessible through state-level public health events. Additionally, $4 million will support the National Center for Farmworker Health to enhance bird flu prevention through training, information, and resources. Despite mild symptoms in recent human cases, the overall risk to the public remains low.
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