The United States has recorded its first human death from bird flu, specifically the H5N1 strain, in Louisiana. The patient, who was over 65 years old and had underlying medical conditions, contracted the virus after exposure to a backyard flock and wild birds.
According to a statement from Louisiana's Department of Health, the patient was hospitalized and later died. The department has conducted a thorough public health investigation and found no additional cases of H5N1 or evidence of person-to-person transmission. This remains the only human case of H5N1 in Louisiana.
The department expressed condolences to the patient's family and friends, stating that this would be the final update regarding the patient due to confidentiality and respect for the family.
The current public health risk for the general public is considered low. However, individuals who work with birds, poultry, or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, are at a higher risk. The best protection against H5N1 is to avoid direct contact with wild birds and animals suspected of being infected with bird flu viruses.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a total of 66 human cases of bird flu in the country. Ten states, including California, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Oregon, Missouri, Washington, Wisconsin, and Texas, have reported cases. The case in Louisiana is the first linked to exposure to a backyard flock.
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a type of flu that spreads among birds. Sometimes, it can infect humans, but this is rare.
H5N1 is a specific type of bird flu virus. It is known to be more dangerous because it can cause severe illness in humans.
Louisiana is a state in the United States of America. It is located in the southern part of the country.
Underlying health conditions are health problems that a person already has, like diabetes or heart disease, which can make them more vulnerable to other illnesses.
A backyard flock refers to a small group of birds, like chickens or ducks, that people keep at home for eggs or as pets.
CDC stands for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is a national public health institute in the United States that works to protect people from diseases.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *