The CDC has confirmed the first serious case of H5N1 bird flu in a backyard flock in the U.S., raising concerns. The case, found in Louisiana, involved someone who had contact with sick and dead birds. This has led to states declaring emergencies to prevent the virus from spreading further.
The First Serious Case of H5N1 Bird Flu in the U.S.
On December 13, 2024, the CDC confirmed the first serious case of H5N1 bird flu in Louisiana. The virus was linked to a backyard flock, marking the first time it has been connected to backyard poultry in the U.S. The patient had direct contact with sick birds. This case is part of a larger outbreak, including 37 cases from dairy herds, 21 from poultry farms, and two with unknown causes.
Genetic Details and Virus Spread
Genomic testing of the Louisiana patient identified the D1.1 genotype of the H5N1 bird flu virus. This type has been found in recent cases involving poultry and wild birds in the U.S., as well as in human cases in Canada and Washington. It is different from the B3.13 genotype, which caused outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows. The CDC is conducting more testing but confirms there is no sign of the virus spreading between humans, and the health risk to the public remains low.
Emergency Declarations and Response Efforts
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency after the bird flu spread to dairy cows in Southern California. Since it was first detected in Texas and Kansas in March 2024, the virus has now appeared in 16 states. The emergency declaration allows California to direct resources, hire more workers, and implement measures to control the outbreak.
CDC’s wastewater surveillance program shows H5N1 bird flu positive wastewater in 11 states.
California has set up widespread testing and monitoring systems to track the outbreak. Governor Newsom reassured the public, stating, “We are dedicated to protecting public health, supporting our agriculture industry, and providing Californians with accurate and timely information.”
Safety Measures and Health Advice
To help contain the H5N1 bird flu outbreak, people are urged to avoid direct contact with sick or dead animals, including wild birds and poultry. If contact is unavoidable, it’s important to use personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, goggles, and N95 masks.
Consumers should ensure meat, poultry, and eggs are cooked to safe temperatures and only use pasteurized dairy products. Those exposed to sick animals should watch for symptoms like eye redness or breathing problems for 10 days and seek medical help if symptoms appear.
Workplace Safety and Employer Guidelines
Employers of workers who handle poultry and livestock are advised to update safety procedures to reduce the risk of H5N1 exposure. This includes assessing high-risk tasks, isolating infected animals, and maintaining strict sanitation practices.
Providing workers with proper protective gear, such as disposable coveralls and gloves, is essential to prevent infection and control the spread of the virus.
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