Tulare County implements robust H5N1 response after first confirmed human case

The Joint Hearing on Health and Agriculture convened by the California State Senate on March 5, 2025, focused on the state's response to the H5N1 avian influenza outbreak, particularly its implications for public health and the dairy industry. The meeting highlighted the proactive measures taken by Tulare County public health officials in response to the first confirmed human case of H5N1, which was reported on October 3, 2024.

The Tulare County public health representative detailed the county's preparedness efforts, which began in March 2024, anticipating the potential spread of the virus due to the region's significant dairy industry. With over 200 dairies in the county, officials recognized the need for a robust response strategy. They conducted a tabletop exercise in August 2024, involving over 85 participants from various sectors, to enhance coordination and identify areas for improvement.

Following the first case notification, the county activated its Department Operation Center (DOC) to manage the emergency response effectively. This included close collaboration with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to monitor the virus's spread among local dairies. The county's efforts were bolstered by state funding, which allowed for the establishment of a dedicated public health team to lead case investigations, testing, and community outreach.

The meeting also addressed the challenges faced by dairy farm workers, many of whom are immigrant and undocumented individuals with limited rights. A representative from the UC Merced Community and Labor Center presented research findings indicating that noncompliance with labor standards among dairy employers poses risks for the spread of H5N1. The report highlighted inadequate health and safety practices, prioritization of production over worker health, and a lack of economic safety nets that discourage workers from reporting illnesses.

Key recommendations from the research included requiring employers to provide paid sick leave for testing and medical monitoring, ensuring access to bird flu testing for workers, and increasing enforcement of workplace health and safety standards. The findings underscored the need for a dual approach that addresses both animal health and worker safety to mitigate the risks associated with the outbreak.

Senators engaged in discussions about the effectiveness of current public health measures and the need for improved communication and education regarding the virus. They acknowledged the importance of protecting both animal and human health, particularly in light of the ongoing risks posed by new strains of the virus.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue collaboration among public health officials, agricultural stakeholders, and labor representatives to enhance the safety and health of both workers and the community at large. The discussions emphasized the critical need for a comprehensive response strategy that prioritizes public health while addressing the realities faced by those working in the dairy industry.