California Bird Flu Cases Undercounted Due to Economic Concerns, Labor Union Says
Investing in the financial market can be influenced by unexpected factors, such as the recent outbreak of bird flu in California. According to a labor union and a state expert, the number of human cases of bird flu in California may be undercounted due to economic concerns among farm workers.
Since early October, 15 dairy farm workers in California have been infected with bird flu, leading to a rapid spread of the virus to more than 130 dairy herds. However, many farm workers with symptoms consistent with bird flu are avoiding testing because they fear losing income if they have to isolate at home without pay.
Elizabeth Strater, national vice president of the United Farm Workers labor union, pointed out that there is a significant undercount of cases because workers are unwilling to test. Symptoms of the virus, such as fever and conjunctivitis, are not severe enough for workers to risk losing income by isolating at home.
Individuals who test positive for bird flu are required to isolate until public health officials determine that they no longer pose a risk of spreading the virus, according to guidance from the California Department of Public Health. California’s state epidemiologist, Erica Pan, acknowledged the possibility of an undercount among workers, stating that those with milder symptoms may not be seeking testing.
The state is collaborating with a multilingual team from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to investigate human infections of the virus in California’s Central Valley, where most cases have been reported. Additionally, farm workers who contract avian flu on the job are eligible for worker’s compensation, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the California Department of Industrial Relations.
It is crucial for investors to stay informed about external factors that may impact the financial market, such as public health crises like the bird flu outbreak. Understanding the potential economic implications of such events can help individuals make informed decisions about their investments and financial strategies.