The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has officially ended its H5N1 bird flu emergency response on July 2, 2025, after a gradual decline in reported cases and no new human infections since February. While this marks a transition back to standard surveillance under the CDC’s influenza division, infectious disease experts say there are still critical public health factors we shouldn’t ignore.The H5N1 avian influenza virus, which emerged in the 1990s, has caused widespread outbreaks among birds and mammals and even infected humans raising concerns about its potential for mutation and further spread. Though human-to-human transmission hasn’t happened yet, there are warning signs in how the virus behaves in animal populations and the food supply chain.7 Facts About Bird Flu That You Must KnowHere are seven key facts you need to know about bird flu even as the emergency status lifts.1. Bird Flu Didn’t Disappear, It’s Just Under Surveillance NowThe CDC’s decision to deactivate its emergency response doesn’t mean H5N1 has vanished. It simply reflects a shift from an emergency footing back to routine monitoring. Since early 2024, the virus has affected nearly 175 million birds across the U.S. and spread to over 1,000 dairy herds in 17 states.While human cases remain rare, 70 confirmed cases with one death in the U.S.—the CDC is maintaining its vigilance through its influenza division. Experts also caution that the virus has a seasonal nature, typically peaking in the fall and winter months, which means future surges remain possible.2. Humans Can Get Bird FluBird flu primarily affects birds, but certain strains, especially H5N1, have crossed over to infect other species, including cows, cats, and humans. Most of the 70 human cases recorded in the U.S. during the current outbreak involved people with close contact with infected poultry, dairy cattle, or contaminated environments.Symptoms in humans can range from mild to severe, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath. There’s been no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission, but experts warn the virus’s ability to mutate in mammalian hosts makes it a potential pandemic threat down the line.3. Cooked Eggs, Poultry, and Meat Are Safe But Temperature MattersOne of the biggest misconceptions during avian flu outbreaks is fear around consuming animal products. Cooking meat, poultry, and eggs to the right internal temperatures kills the H5N1 virus. According to CDC and FDA guidelines:Chicken & Eggs: 165°FGround Beef: 160°FWhole Cuts of Beef: 145°F, with a three-minute restMilk: Only consume pasteurized dairyProper food handling is crucial, wash hands before and after food prep, and avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked items.4. Raw Milk Could Be A RiskThe H5N1 virus has been shown to replicate in the udders of infected dairy cows, meaning unpasteurized milk can carry the virus. While pasteurization eliminates this risk, consuming raw milk or raw-milk products puts consumers at risk not only for bird flu but also for other pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.Both the FDA and USDA strongly advise against drinking raw milk or feeding it to pets. If you’re buying dairy, look for clear pasteurization labels.5. Pets Need Vaccination, TooCats and dogs can be exposed to the virus, especially if they come into contact with infected birds or raw dairy/meat products. While infections in pets are rare, they’ve occurred—especially in outdoor cats. Pet owners should:Avoid feeding pets raw food or unpasteurized milkPrevent pets from interacting with sick or dead birdsDiscuss flu vaccination options with a veterinarian, especially for at-risk breeds or environments6. Hand Hygiene Isn’t OptionalH5N1 is shed in bird saliva, feces, and mucous and these can linger on surfaces. Whether you’re cleaning out a chicken coop, refilling a backyard bird feeder, or walking in a park often by birds, handwashing is your first line of defense.Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds or alcohol-based sanitizer if handwashing isn’t available. It's basic, but it's the gold standard for flu prevention.7. Public Health Recommendations Are Still in EffectPeople who work closely with poultry, cattle, or wild birds—farmers, veterinarians, wildlife rehabilitators—remain the most vulnerable. The CDC recommends using protective equipment like gloves, masks, and eye protection in high-exposure settings.Vaccination against human influenza is encouraged for the general population. While it doesn’t prevent bird flu, it simplifies diagnosis and reduces strain on healthcare systems during flu season.The end of the CDC’s emergency response is a hopeful sign but H5N1 continues to circulate in bird and mammal populations worldwide. The virus’s ability to infect new species, mutate, and potentially evolve toward human-to-human transmission keeps it on public health radars.Until then, the best defense is staying informed, practicing safe food habits, protecting pets, and supporting robust surveillance systems because when it comes to zoonotic viruses, we’re only as safe as our weakest link in the chain.