U.S. farmworkers in the dairy and poultry sectors are facing a double threat: the risk of bird flu and a deep-seated fear of deportation. A recent report by KFF highlights that many workers are too scared to seek medical help, with fears that even leaving home could put them in danger. 😷
Despite efforts by public health specialists—such as a CDC vaccine campaign aimed at over 200,000 livestock workers—aggressive immigration enforcement has driven many to stay home. As outreach worker Rosa Yanez from Strangers No Longer explained, "People are very scared to go out, even to get groceries," making it harder to detect and contain bird flu cases.
Since March 2024, around 65 dairy and poultry workers have tested positive for bird flu. However, experts believe the true number could be significantly higher because limited surveillance on farms means many cases go undetected. The fear is pervasive, affecting Hispanic communities across the U.S., regardless of immigration status.
Advocates from groups like United Farm Workers and Project Protect Food Systems Workers warn that every untreated infection increases the risk of the virus evolving into a more dangerous form. As one anonymous outreach worker noted, policy changes have only intensified the crisis, leaving many vulnerable and isolated.
This situation serves as a stark reminder that public health and community trust go hand in hand. When workers are too afraid to seek care, everyone’s health is jeopardized—a challenge that calls for compassionate, comprehensive solutions.
Reference(s):
Report: Immigration crackdown hinders bird flu prevention in U.S.
cgtn.com
