Health authorities in the U.S. have confirmed the first severe case of bird flu, with a Louisiana patient in critical condition. Meanwhile, California has declared a state of emergency as the virus spreads among dairy cattle in the state.
Louisiana Reports First Severe Human Bird Flu Case
A person in Louisiana, over the age of 65 with underlying health conditions, was hospitalized with severe respiratory symptoms from a bird flu infection. The individual had been in contact with sick or deceased birds in a backyard flock. This marks the first known human case in the U.S. linked to exposure to backyard birds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Since March, more than 60 bird flu cases have been reported in humans across the U.S. However, previous cases have been mild, primarily affecting farmworkers exposed to sick poultry or dairy cows. Notably, there have been two instances—one in Missouri and one in California—where health officials have been unable to determine the exact source of the infection.
CDC officials emphasized that bird flu remains primarily an animal health issue, with the overall risk to the general public remaining low. There have been no reports of the virus spreading from person to person, said Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, a CDC official.
California Takes Action with State of Emergency
In response to the ongoing bird flu situation, California’s Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency after the virus was detected in dairy cows across Southern California. Previously, cases had been identified in the state’s Central Valley. Newsom stated that the emergency declaration will help ensure that government agencies have the necessary resources and flexibility to address the outbreak swiftly.
The virus has affected 865 dairy herds across 16 states, with nearly 650 of those herds located in California. Last month, raw milk from infected cattle was recalled after samples from California stores tested positive for the virus.
Spread of Bird Flu and New Animal Infections
In Los Angeles County, officials confirmed that two cats died from bird flu after consuming the recalled raw milk. The virus, initially detected in wild birds, has now spread to dairy cows, and authorities are monitoring its effects closely.
While it’s unclear how the virus will continue to impact humans, experts urge caution for those who come into contact with sick or dead birds. The CDC recommends that individuals take precautions such as wearing respiratory and eye protection, as well as gloves when handling poultry.
Growing Concerns About Bird Flu
The trajectory of the bird flu virus remains uncertain, with experts noting that we may see more severe cases in the U.S. as incidents appear to be increasing. Angela Rasmussen, a virus expert at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, stated, “We may see more cases of severe disease in the U.S. as these cases seem to be growing more frequent.”
Key Takeaways
- A severe bird flu case in Louisiana has raised concerns, with the patient hospitalized in critical condition.
- California declares a state of emergency after the virus spreads to dairy cattle.
- Raw milk recalls have expanded, and two cats have died from bird flu after ingesting contaminated milk.
- Health experts warn about the growing frequency of severe cases and urge precautions for those handling sick or dead birds.
Source: AP News