California Battles Severe Avian Influenza Outbreak

California is experiencing a significant outbreak of avian influenza, with over 1.5 million birds culled to prevent the virus's spread, particularly affecting poultry in multiple counties. The outbreak has led to 22 confirmed human cases since the first positive test this summer, primarily linked to dairy farms, where nearly 280 farms reported positive cases among cows. In response, state-wide educational efforts and testing protocols are being implemented to track the virus's spread. Meanwhile, Hawaii has reported its first detection of H5N1 avian influenza from a wastewater sample, though no cases in animals or humans have been confirmed, maintaining a low risk. In Canada, a teenager in Fraser Health has tested presumptively positive for avian influenza, marking the first case of its kind in B.C. and Canada, with health officials investigating the source of exposure.