The United States has confirmed its first-ever case of the rare H5N5 bird flu strain, with a resident of Washington state hospitalized. This marks the country’s first human diagnosis since February. The patient, an older adult with underlying health conditions, remains hospitalized after showing influenza-like symptoms in early November. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) confirmed the case, citing exposure to wild birds and domestic poultry. While the virus is not known to spread easily between humans, public health officials emphasize the need for caution among poultry owners and wildlife handlers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that the risk to the public remains low, but the case underscores concerns about the potential for avian influenza to evolve into more transmissible forms. The outbreak highlights the importance of preventative measures, such as avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and reporting suspected cases to local health authorities.
Although the seasonal flu vaccine does not prevent bird flu infections, it remains crucial as it may reduce the risk of co-infection with both viruses, which could lead to more contagious strains. The DOH has urged poultry owners, wildlife handlers, and others who have contact with animals to take precautions, including using appropriate protective equipment and reporting sick animals to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). Public health experts have not found any increased risk to the general population, but the case serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by zoonotic diseases. The confirmation of H5N5 in a human also brings attention to the role of backyard poultry flocks and wild bird interactions in the spread of avian influenza. While the H5N5 virus has primarily affected birds, its genetic makeup differs from H5N1, which has caused human illness in the past. Scientists are closely monitoring the situation for any signs of increased transmissibility or mutations that could pose a greater risk to human health.
The CDC previously declared the bird flu emergency officially over in July after a decline in animal infections and no new human cases since February. However, the recent case of H5N5 highlights the persistent challenges in controlling avian influenza and the potential for new variants to emerge. Public health officials are advising the public to remain vigilant and follow recommended safety protocols, especially in areas where wild bird activity is common. The case underscores the importance of robust surveillance systems and rapid response mechanisms to mitigate the impact of emerging infectious diseases. As global health organizations continue to monitor the situation, the focus remains on preventing further human infections and safeguarding both animal and human populations from the potential spread of avian influenza.