The CDC officially terminated its emergency response to the H5N1 bird flu outbreak, signaling a significant reduction in the immediate public health threat posed by the virus. The decision, driven by CDC career scientists, comes as animal infections have sharply declined and no human cases have been reported in the United States since February 2025.
The CDC emphasized that routine surveillance will continue under its influenza division, ensuring the agency can quickly scale up activities if the situation changes. “We’re not letting our guard down”, a CDC spokesperson stated. “Our systems are in place to detect and respond to any uptick in cases.”
The end of the CDC’s emergency response to H5N1 bird flu reflects a cautiously optimistic outlook, driven by declining cases and a low current risk to humans. However, the virus’s history of resurgence and its potential to evolve necessitate ongoing vigilance. As the U.S. enters the fall season, the CDC and its partners remain poised to respond to any signs of renewed H5N1 activity, ensuring the nation is prepared for whatever challenges the virus may bring.
