A teenager in Canada is in critical condition with the first human case of H5N1 bird flu in the country, and health officials are unsure how the youth was exposed. The teen had no known contact with livestock like cattle or poultry, where the virus typically circulates. The strain of H5N1 that infected the teen is different from the one affecting cows and dairy workers in the U.S.
The specific variant of H5N1 in question, a 2.3.4.4b virus of the D1.1 genotype, usually circulates in wild birds and poultry. Canada has not found H5N1 in its cattle herds yet, but there have been outbreaks in poultry. The H5N1 lineage causing dairy outbreaks emerged in 1996 and has spread globally, with cases in mammals like sea lions and elephant seals.
Although there have been mild cases of H5N1 in humans, the virus can cause severe illness, with a high fatality rate. The unidentified teenager in British Columbia is too ill to provide information about possible exposures, making it challenging to determine the source of the infection. Health officials are investigating whether this case is isolated or if H5N1 is spreading undetected.
Recent research has shown that H5N1 is evolving to spread more easily between mammals, but it still does not transmit as readily as the seasonal flu. Canadian health officials are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further cases. The possibility of person-to-person transmission of H5N1 remains low, but precautionary measures are being taken to contain the virus.
Stephanie Pappas, a writer for Live Science, emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks associated with H5N1 and the need for continued research to track the spread of the virus. Health organizations like the CDC are working to prevent outbreaks and protect public health. Stay informed about the latest developments in health and science to stay safe and healthy.
