First Severe U.S. Bird Flu Case Prompts CDC Alert

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The Center for Disease Control headquarters is in Atlanta, Ga., on Aug. 6, 2022.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced Wednesday the first severe human case of H5N1 avian influenza, or bird flu, in the United States—a zoonotic infection raising concerns.

The individual, a southwestern Louisiana resident, was reported infected last Friday. According to Emma Herrock, a Louisiana Department of Health spokesperson, the patient, over 65 and with pre-existing conditions, is experiencing severe respiratory illness from the H5N1 infection and is hospitalized in critical condition. Further updates on their condition will not be released due to patient confidentiality.

This is the 61st human H5N1 bird flu case in the U.S. since April. However, the CDC states the overall public health risk remains low, with no U.S. deaths reported.

Here’s what to know.

What caused the severe infection?

The CDC’s December 18 announcement indicated that, while under investigation, the patient had contact with sick and dead birds in backyard flocks, marking the first known U.S. case with this origin.

Of the 61 cases, 58 were linked to commercial agriculture—37 from dairy herds and 21 from poultry farms and culling operations. The exposure sources for the other two U.S. cases are unknown.

What’s the current state of H5N1 human infections?

Over half (34) of the U.S. human infections this year occurred in California, with nearly all patients having contact with cattle. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency.

The CDC noted that a severe infection like the one in Louisiana was anticipated, given cases in other nations. The World Health Organization reported a Vietnamese patient who died after a diagnosis of severe pneumonia, sepsis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome was later found to have an H5N1 infection. The U.S. appears to have the highest number of H5N1 infections globally this year, according to reports.

How can infection be prevented?

The CDC recommends avoiding contact with wild birds and other potentially infected animals and their bodily fluids. Those working with cattle and poultry on affected farms are at higher risk and should monitor for symptoms.

Thoroughly cooking poultry and poultry products eliminates the risk. While unpasteurized milk from infected cows may pose a risk, the CDC notes it’s unclear if the virus transmits through its consumption.