California Becomes First State to Declare Emergency Over H5N1 Bird Flu Outbreak

Dec 18, 2024, 10:42 PM

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in response to the H5N1 bird flu outbreak, aiming to "streamline and expedite" the state's response efforts. The declaration allows state agencies to mobilize resources and enhance staffing to address the crisis. The avian influenza has been spreading among poultry farms since the outbreak began in the spring, raising concerns over potential impacts on public health and agriculture. California is the first state to declare a state of emergency over the outbreak. Governor Newsom stated, "We will continue to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this virus."