Protect Your Farm and Family from the Flu

What is avian influenza?

Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is caused by influenza A viruses that most often affect birds. However, the virus can be spread to other mammals (pigs, dairy cows, other animals, and humans), who can act as "mixing vessel hosts" that could create a new strain that could possible start a new pandemic.

What's a mixing vessel host?

A mixing vessel host is an animal that can be infected by multiple strains of influenza. If an animal gets two different viruses at the same time, the viruses can mix their genes and create a new combination. This reassortment is what can produce new viruses that are more dangerous to both animals and humans, including the potential to cause another pandemic.

Why is it important for farm workers to get their flu shot?

It's important for those who are in close contact with pigs, dairy cows, poultry, or other animals to get their flu shot as protection against influenza viruses. This includes farmers, workers, and family members or close contacts of farm workers. This protects them from exposing their animals to the human flu virus and creating a possible mixing vessel!

Resources

• Iowa HHS - Backyard Poultry Safety: https://hhs.iowa.gov/health-prevention/animal-safety-and-disease-prevention/backyard-poultry-safety 
• Iowa State University, The Center for Food Security & Public Health: https://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/infection-control/ 
• National Center for Farmworker Health: https://www.ncfh.org/outreach-services-and-support/ag-employer-outreach/