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Human cases of avian influenza (H5N1) associated with these poultry outbreaks were first reported in January 2004. Please see table above for an up-to-date list of areas with human cases of avian influenza (H5N1) and for the link to the human case count. To date, only limited person-to-person transmission of the H5N1 virus among close contacts has been documented. Most cases have resulted from contact with infected poultry, surfaces or objects contaminated with poultry droppings, or undercooked poultry products.
BSE, widely known as "Mad Cow Disease", is a fatal disease of cattle first recognized in the United Kingdom in 1986. Most research suggests an abnormal protein, known as a prion, causes BSE. Scientific evidence shows the same disease agent that causes BSE in cattle also causes the new human disease, variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. BSE spreads in cattle primarily through animal feed containing processed ruminant products. Cattle infected with BSE take 2 to 8 years before showing signs of disease, which include changes in temperament such as nervousness or aggressiveness, and progressive incoordination.
The California Department of Public Health, Food and Drug Branch (FDB) has been charged with the implementation of Assembly Bill 121, to prevent the sale of adulterated candy to infants, young children, and pregnant women. FDB's Lead in Candy Program is responsible for the collection and testing of candy samples. Enforcement action is taken when adulterated candies are identified and appropriate notifications are made to local environmental health directors and the public.
In order to help the field specialist conduct a prompt and thorough investigation, please be ready with the following information when you call the Environmental Health Division to report a possible foodborne illness.
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