Avian Influenza A(H5) Detected in Inyo County

AVIAN INFLUENZA A(H5) DETECTED IN INYO COUNTY 

Public Health Advises Precautions 

January 27, 2026 Bishop, CA –

Inyo County Health & Human Services – Public Health is informing the community that avian influenza A(H5),  also known as “H5 bird flu,” has been detected in local animals within Inyo County. This detection does not mean that any people are currently sick; however, it does confirm that the virus is present in the area.

Inyo County Public Health is working closely with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to monitor the situation and to share safety information to  help protect residents, workers, and healthcare providers.

According to the CDC, H5 bird flu is common in wild birds and has caused outbreaks among poultry and dairy  cattle in various parts of the United States. A small number of human infections have occurred in people with  close, prolonged contact with sick animals. These cases remain rare, and the overall risk to the general public  is currently low. Staying informed and following recommended precautions can further reduce risk.

Recommendations for the Public 

Avoid Contact with Sick or Dead Birds and Animals

• Do not touch sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or mammals.
• Report sick or dead birds to local animal control or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Prevent Exposure

• Avoid consuming raw or unpasteurized dairy products, which the CDC notes may be a source of  exposure in affected regions.
• Keep pets away from sick or dead wildlife.

If You Work with Birds, Poultry, or Livestock

• Use recommended personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Monitor for symptoms for 10 days after exposure, including eye redness, respiratory symptoms, or  fever.
• Report any symptoms to a healthcare provider and inform them of your animal exposure.

General Health Precautions

• Wash hands after outdoor activities.
• Avoid touching your face after handling animals or being in barns, coops, or wildlife areas.
• Stay home when sick.

Recommendations for Healthcare Providers 

CDPH and CDC advise clinicians to maintain heightened awareness for potential human infections.

Clinical Considerations

• Consider avian influenza A(H5N1) in patients with acute respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis who  report recent exposure to birds, dairy cattle, or other potentially infected animals.
• All confirmed human cases in California dairy workers have presented with conjunctivitis.

Testing and Reporting

• Immediately report suspected cases to Inyo County Public Health.
• Follow CDC interim guidance for testing, monitoring, and infection control.
• Monitor exposed individuals for 10 days following last exposure.

Infection Prevention

• Use appropriate PPE when evaluating symptomatic individuals with relevant exposure history.
• Follow CDC guidance for antiviral treatment and chemoprophylaxis when indicated.

Ongoing Monitoring 

Inyo County Public Health continues to work closely with CDPH, CDC, and local partners to monitor for signs of  human illness and to support surveillance in wildlife, livestock, and wastewater systems. Detection of avian  influenza in animals or wastewater does not necessarily indicate human infection but serves as an early  warning tool for public health agencies.

For more information, contact Inyo County Public Health at (760) 873-7868.

News Staff