Learn about H5N1 bird flu
Visit the California Department of Public Health to learn about bird flu.
Raw milk information
Cows infected with bird flu can shed the virus in their milk. The best way to prevent getting sick from germs in raw milk is to choose pasteurized milk and cheese. Learn more about raw milk and your health here: Raw Milk and Raw Milk Products
Wild bird safety
People should avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds, especially wild birds and poultry. Wild birds can be infected with bird flu even if they do not look sick. If you have found a dead bird, please contact 311.
Information for health professionals
SFDPH Health Update, December 17, 2025
SFDPH/CDPH Health Update, December 12, 2024
Health professionals can learn more about H5N1 bird flu from the California Department of Public Health.
Bird flu in cats
CDPH provides guidance for veterinarians on avian influenza, including infection control, reporting, and testing requirements.
If a cat is exhibiting signs/symptoms consistent with influenza A, veterinarians should report to SFDPH Communicable Disease Branch:
- Complete the test request form for testing through public health
- Submit form to cdcontrol@sfdph.org
- Call 628-217-6100
News
Presumptive Bird Flu Case Identified In San Francisco Resident
Website Last Updated: December 23, 2025
The short URL for this page is sf.gov/birdflu