1. United States
2. Letter

COVID-19 and bird flu outbreaks are on the rise, posing potential health risks. This summer has seen California's worst COVID surge in two years, with hyperinfectious subvariants like KP.3.1.1 fueling the spike. Simultaneously, bird flu has infected poultry, dairy cows, and even a few human cases have been reported. The situation is concerning as flu season approaches, increasing the risk of viral reassortment between avian and human strains. We urge taking proactive measures to safeguard public health. Encourage widespread testing for respiratory illnesses to detect COVID-19 and potential bird flu cases early. Promote vaccination efforts, including the upcoming updated COVID-19 vaccine formula. Advise adherence to isolation guidelines for those infected and reasonable precautions like masking in high-risk settings. Prioritize monitoring and tracking bird flu transmission, particularly in agricultural settings. Addressing these dual health threats requires a comprehensive strategy. Timely action can mitigate their impact and protect vulnerable populations. We request a detailed plan outlining steps to bolster healthcare readiness, enhance surveillance, and educate the public on preventive measures against COVID-19 and bird flu.