In a dramatic turn of events, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in response to the escalating bird flu crisis.
In his proclamation, Newsom urged Californians to heed the instructions of emergency officials, stating, "all residents are to obey the direction of emergency officials with regard to this emergency in order to protect their safety."
The avian influenza A (H5N1) was initially detected in the U.S. wild bird population in South Carolina in January 2022, and the first outbreak among dairy cows was reported in March 2024. California's first encounter with the disease in a dairy cow was recorded on August 30, 2024. Since then, the bird flu has been confirmed in 61 dairies across nine counties in Central California.
According to The Post Millennial, despite rigorous testing and containment efforts, the bird flu was detected in dairy cows at four Southern California dairies on December 12, 2024. This development necessitated a shift from regional containment to statewide monitoring and response to active cases. The report also highlighted that since March, 61 human cases have been reported across eight states, with California bearing the brunt with 34 cases.
Currently, the California Department of Food and Agriculture is conducting surveillance testing at 985 dairies across the state, with 614 dairies under quarantine. The emergency declaration empowers state agencies to enter into contracts for the procurement of materials, goods, and services necessary to expedite the response to and recovery from the impacts of this emergency. The directive aims to assist local governments and protect public health and the environment.
The declaration also suspends work hour limitations for retired annuitants, permanent and intermittent personnel, and state management and senior supervisors. As the situation continues to unfold, Californians are urged to stay updated on the latest developments.
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