First Confirmed Case of H5N1 Bird Flu in the United States
In a tragic turn of events, a person in Louisiana who was hospitalized with a severe case of bird flu has passed away. The hospitalization, which was first announced on December 13, marked the first severe case of H5N1 bird flu in the United States. This subtype of bird flu has been circulating among wild birds and poultry in the U.S. since 2021, and in 2024, it was detected in dairy cows for the first time. The virus has now infected at least 66 people in the country, primarily those who were directly exposed to infected cows or poultry.
Investigation Reveals Source of Infection
The exact source of the infection for the patient in Louisiana was initially unknown. However, a thorough investigation conducted by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) uncovered that the person fell ill after exposure to a noncommercial backyard flock of birds and wild birds. The LDH emphasized that there have been no additional cases of H5N1 in Louisiana or evidence of person-to-person transmission.
Teen Girl in Canada Also Infected
In a separate incident, a teen girl in Canada recently caught the D1.1 genotype of the virus and required intensive care in a hospital. Fortunately, she has since recovered from the infection. A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine highlighted several concerning mutations in the virus that infected her, which may have increased its ability to infect humans and cause severe illness.
Preventative Measures and Recommendations
Health officials stress the importance of avoiding direct contact with wild birds, poultry, or cows to protect oneself and one’s family from H5N1. If you have been exposed to potentially infected animals and develop respiratory symptoms or eye redness within 10 days, it is crucial to inform your healthcare providers for appropriate testing and treatment. Antiviral drugs used to treat seasonal flu, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), have been effective in treating bird flu.
In conclusion, while the current public health risk for the general public remains low, individuals who work with birds, poultry, or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, are at higher risk of contracting H5N1. Stay informed, stay cautious, and take necessary precautions to safeguard your health and well-being.
About the Author
Nicoletta Lanese, the health channel editor at Live Science, brings a unique blend of expertise in science communication, neuroscience, and dance to her work. Based in NYC, she remains deeply involved in dance and continues to perform in local choreographers’ work. Her dedication to health journalism shines through in her writing, providing readers with valuable and insightful information on a wide range of health topics.