The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed the first severe case of avian influenza A(H5N1) (“H5N1 bird flu”) in a backyard flock in the United States, sparking heightened concerns. The patient, located in Louisiana, came into contact with sick and dead birds, marking the first such case connected to backyard flocks. This revelation has prompted a state of emergency in several areas to combat the spread of the virus.
Health officials have confirmed the first severe case of H5N1 bird flu in the United States, marking a pivotal moment in monitoring efforts for the virus.
— The Epoch Times (@EpochTimes) December 18, 2024
The patient, a resident of southwestern Louisiana, was hospitalized after exposure to sick and dead birds in a backyard… pic.twitter.com/oCV1wSS9i5
The First Severe Case of H5N1 Bird Flu in the United States
On December 13, 2024, the CDC announced the first serious case of H5N1 bird flu in Louisiana. This case, connected to a backyard flock, shows a big change in how the virus spreads in the U.S. The person got sick after being around ill birds, marking the first time the virus has been linked to backyard chickens in the country. This situation is part of a larger outbreak, with 37 cases related to dairy farms, 21 to poultry farms, and two cases where the source of exposure is still unknown.
Genetic Insights and Spread of the Virus
A genomic study of a patient from Louisiana showed that they had the D1.1 type of the H5N1 bird flu virus. This type has been found in recent cases among birds in the U.S. and in some human cases in Canada and Washington. It is different from the B3.13 type that has caused outbreaks in birds and cows. The CDC is still doing more tests, but they want to reassure everyone that there is no sign of the virus spreading from person to person, and the risk to public health is still low.
States of Emergency and Expanded Measures
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a state of emergency because a virus has affected dairy cows in Southern California. Since it was first found in Texas and Kansas in March 2024, the virus has now spread to 16 states. This declaration helps the state to use resources for controlling the situation, making contracts, and increasing the workforce.
⚠️ BREAKING:
CDC's wastewater surveillance program shows H5N1 bird flu positive wastewater in 11 states. pic.twitter.com/hrgwRZnqiF— Infectious Disease Tracker (@HmpxvT) December 13, 2024
California has set up a lot of testing and monitoring systems to keep an eye on the outbreak. Governor Newsom told everyone, “We are dedicated to better protecting public health, helping our agriculture industry, and making sure Californians get accurate and current information.”
Precautions and Public Health Recommendations
The government is stepping up its efforts to control the H5N1 bird flu outbreak, and they are asking everyone to be careful and reduce their chances of getting sick. It’s important to stay away from sick or dead animals, like wild birds and farm birds. If you can’t avoid being around them, you should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, safety goggles, and N95 masks to stay safe.
When it comes to food, make sure to cook meat, poultry, and eggs thoroughly and only drink pasteurized milk products. If you have been around sick animals, keep an eye on yourself for any signs of illness, like red eyes or trouble breathing, for ten days. If you notice any symptoms, get medical help right away.
Occupational Safety and Employer Responsibilities
Employers who have workers dealing with poultry and livestock should update their safety rules to protect against possible H5N1 exposure. They need to look for tasks that are risky and put in place safety measures, like keeping sick animals away from healthy ones and making sure everything is clean.
It’s really important to give workers the right personal protective equipment (PPE), like disposable coveralls and gloves, to help lower the chances of getting H5N1. By following these safety steps, the spread of the virus can be significantly reduced.
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