As a result of several confirmed cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5) in dairy herds in Iowa, the State Hygienic Lab is working with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and local public health departments to offer testing for the virus in individuals with a known or suspected exposure with signs and symptoms of influenza-like-illness.
During the current outbreak, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is recommending a low threshold for testing of individuals with a known or suspected exposure, including those with mild symptoms.
The CDC is suggesting testing of individuals who have had contact with infected animals as soon as possible if they exhibit any respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, runny nose, sore throat, congestion) or conjunctivitis regardless of the presence or absence of fever and regardless of whether symptoms may be explained by other etiologies such as seasonal allergies.
Learn more about the signs and symptoms of avian influenza infections in humans.
To obtain testing, exposed individuals should contact their local public health department.