California governor Gavin Newsom has declared a State of Emergency to enhance state’s response to the ongoing outbreak of Avian Influenza A (H5N1), also known as Bird Flu. This move follows the detection of cases among dairy cows on farms in Southern California, highlighting the need for expanded monitoring and a coordinated statewide effort to contain the virus.
The virus, first confirmed in dairy cattle in Texas and Kansas in March 2024, has since spread to 16 states. In California, nearly all infected individuals had direct contact with infected cattle, and no cases of person-to-person transmission have been reported so far.
California operates the largest testing and monitoring system in the country to manage the outbreak, according to statement released. The emergency proclamation aims to provide state and local agencies with greater flexibility in areas like staffing, contracting, and regulations to strengthen the state’s evolving response.
“This proclamation is a targeted action to ensure government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need to respond quickly to this outbreak,” said Governor Newsom. “Building on California’s testing and monitoring system — the largest in the nation — we are committed to further protecting public health, supporting our agriculture industry, and ensuring that Californians have access to accurate, up-to-date information. While the risk to the public remains low, we will continue to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this virus.”
The governor’s office emphasized its commitment to safeguarding public health and supporting the agricultural sector while keeping residents informed about the situation.
