California Department of Public Health or official state announcements

Newsom Declares Emergency in California as Bird Flu Infects 600 Dairy Herds and 34 People

Dec 18, 2024, 09:21 PM

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Wednesday in response to the H5N1 bird flu outbreak in the state. The virus has infected more than 600 dairy herds and 34 people in California, including a child. The emergency declaration aims to streamline and expedite the state's response by providing flexibility around staffing, contracting, and other requirements. "We will continue to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this virus," Newsom said.