Not only could it affect our collective health if mishandled, but ecosystems may suffer from the loss of animal life.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a state of emergency in December due to a rise in bird flu cases in the state’s dairy herds.
What’s happening?
CBS News reported that bird flu, also known as H5N1, has been impacting bird populations for the last two years. It’s creating greater concern among experts because of its jump to cattle.
According to Reuters, 100 million chickens, turkeys, and other birds have died as a result of bird flu since 2022.
In a statement, Newsom said, “While the risk to the public remains low, we will continue to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this virus.” Being proactive, he and other officials said, will help to prevent further spread of and illness from bird flu.
Why is this state of emergency important?
Calling a state of emergency will allow for adjusting accordingly before things get worse…