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Avian Flu Infections in Colorado Affect Hispanic Workers

AT RISK | Agricultural workers in northern Colorado must wear masks. (Photo/EFE)

HIGH RATE OF VIRUS INFECTION DETECTED IN DAIRY FARMS

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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A recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that 7% of dairy farm workers exposed to the HPAI A(H5) virus, also known as avian flu, developed antibodies against the virus. This indicates that they contracted the virus within the past three months. All confirmed infections in Colorado and Michigan involved Spanish-speaking agricultural workers, highlighting the vulnerability of this population in the agricultural sector.

The study, conducted between June and August 2024, analyzed blood samples from 115 individuals working on dairy farms in Colorado and Michigan, where H5N1 was detected in infected cows. Eight participants showed antibodies against the virus, indicating a recent infection. Of these eight, four recalled mild symptoms, such as conjunctivitis, while the other four did not recall specific symptoms. Researchers noted that fear of retaliation might have influenced their responses.

Hispanic Workers Affected

Researchers emphasized that none of the infected workers used masks, and less than half wore eye protection. All infected workers in Colorado were Spanish speakers engaged in tasks such as milking infected cows or cleaning barns. This finding underscores the risks faced by the Hispanic community in the agricultural industry, who often lack proper training and equipment to protect themselves.

Many workers were unaware that they were handling infected animals, pointing to a lack of training on farms. Insufficient access to clear information in their language and inadequate workplace protection measures contribute to this situation. According to Demetre Daskalakis, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, improving training on the risks of H5 and protective measures on farms is essential.

Testing and Antivirals for Exposed Workers

However, the challenges go beyond training, as many workers feared losing their jobs if they demanded protection or reported symptoms. In response to these findings, the CDC has reviewed and strengthened its guidelines to protect workers at greater risk. It now recommends testing not only for those reporting symptoms but also for those exposed to the virus without obvious symptoms. Additionally, the CDC will offer access to antiviral medications as a preventive measure for these workers.

Nirav Shah, CDC’s principal deputy director, explained that these measures aim to identify and treat infected individuals, thereby reducing the likelihood of severe infection and the spread of the virus. Shah stressed that “the less room we give this virus to spread, the fewer opportunities it will have to cause harm or mutate.” Furthermore, the CDC is working to enhance guidelines for the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for farmworkers.

Use of Masks and Available Vaccines

The CDC is emphasizing the need for masks and eye protection in high-risk activities such as milking and cleaning barns with infected cows. This initiative also includes the distribution of informational materials and practical training on the proper use of PPE. The detection of asymptomatic cases represents a new challenge for authorities in combating the spread of avian flu.

Jennifer Nuzzo, director of the Pandemic Center and professor of epidemiology at Brown University, stated, “It is crucial not to wait for workers to die before taking protective measures.” Nuzzo emphasized that H5N1 vaccines should be made available to these workers, especially those who fear losing their jobs or facing deportation if they exhibit symptoms.

Flu Season and Immigration Policies

As bird migration and human flu seasons approach, concerns are rising about the potential combination of different flu variants, which could increase the transmissibility of the virus among humans. Experts warn that each infected person represents an opportunity for the virus to mutate and develop a higher transmission capacity.

Moreover, the vulnerability is exacerbated by recent U.S. immigration policies, which could hinder immigrant workers’ cooperation with health authorities. The potential mass deportation of immigrants may discourage many workers from seeking medical help or reporting possible infections, fearing separation from their families or job loss.