Farmworkers and farm owners, particularly those who work on poultry and dairy farms, may be exposed to H5N1 influenza (also called avian influenza or highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)).
Tammy Fiedler, Wabasha County Public Health Director, says routine service providers for farms such as veterinarians, truck drivers and hoof trimmers, as well as family members who live on the farm, may also be exposed to H5N1.
According to the Plainview News, while the 2024-2025 seasonal flu vaccine does not specifically protect against H5N1, it can provide protection against other influenza infection, illness, and disease spread.
Wabasha County Public Health strongly encourages all farm workers to receive the seasonal flu vaccine this year and urge employers of farm workers to encourage vaccination.
To support these efforts, they have received additional funding for seasonal flu vaccine, to be primarily used for farm workers and their families who would be eligible for the Uninsured and Underinsured Adult Vaccine (UUAV).
If you are located in Wabasha County, live and or work on a farm, and are interested in talking about this and a potential for vaccine clinics at your farm, please call Tammy Fiedler at Wabasha County Public Health (651) 565-5200, or send email to tfiedler@co.wabasha.mn.us.
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