First bird flu death reported in the U.S., according to the CDC
The U.S. has reported its first human death from H5N1 bird flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The individual, a Louisiana resident over 65 with underlying health conditions, contracted the virus after exposure to sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. This case marks the first severe H5N1 infection in the U.S. linked to backyard poultry. While human cases of H5N1 are rare, they can lead to severe illness or death, with over 950 infections and more than 460 fatalities reported globally since 2003. The CDC assures that the risk to the general public remains low, as no evidence of human-to-human transmission exists. Health officials emphasize the importance of precautions, including avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and using protective equipment when handling poultry. The case highlights the need for vigilance in monitoring avian flu and implementing biosecurity measures to prevent its spread.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reported the first human death from H5N1 bird flu in the United States. The individual, a Louisiana resident over 65 with underlying health conditions, contracted the virus after exposure to sick and dead birds in a backyard flock.
This case is notable as the first severe H5N1 infection in the U.S. linked to backyard poultry exposure. While human cases of H5N1 are rare, they can result in severe illness or death. Globally, over 950 human infections have been reported since 2003, with more than 460 fatalities.
Despite this tragic event, the CDC maintains that the risk to the general public remains low, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission. However, they emphasize the importance of taking precautions when handling birds, especially for those in direct contact with poultry.
This incident underscores the need for vigilance in monitoring avian influenza and implementing biosecurity measures to prevent potential spread. Health officials advise avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and using appropriate protective equipment when necessary.
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