First Severe H5N1 Avian Flu Case in the US: Patient Hospitalized

In the United States, the first severe case of the H5N1 avian flu has been confirmed, resulting in the hospitalization of the patient infected with this potentially deadly virus.

Severe Avian Flu Emerges in the US

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed the first case of severe avian flu in the United States, raising concerns about a potential worsening of the health crisis. The patient is hospitalized in Louisiana, though specific details about their condition remain undisclosed.

A Virus Different From Previously Identified Ones

Initial viral genome data suggests that the virus infecting the patient is of genotype D1.1, recently found in various wild birds and poultry across the US, as well as in humans in British Columbia, Canada, and Washington state.

This virus differs from those typically found in dairy cows and certain poultry populations in the US.

Symptoms Common With Other Diseases

Common symptoms include a sore throat, cough, fever, runny or stuffed nose, headaches, muscle or body aches, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Less common symptoms may also include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.

Prevent Rather Than Cure

Minimizing exposure to the virus is crucial. Infected animals shed avian influenza A virus in their saliva, mucus, and feces. Infected animals can also excrete the virus through their respiratory secretions and other bodily fluids.

Avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, particularly wild birds and poultry, is advised. Individuals who are often in close contact with such animals should wear recommended personal protective equipment. Additionally, it is wise to avoid touching surfaces or materials contaminated with saliva, mucus, or feces from infected wild or domestic animals.