California Declares Emergency After America’s First Severe Bird Flu Case

The United States has reported its first severe case of H5N1 bird flu in a patient from Louisiana, marking a significant development in the ongoing avian influenza outbreak. The individual, now hospitalized, contracted the virus after exposure to sick and dead birds in a backyard flock, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This case is the first severe H5N1 infection documented in the U.S., the CDC confirmed Friday, noting that while sporadic severe cases have occurred internationally, this is unprecedented domestically. Over the past eight months, 61 H5N1 infections have been reported in the U.S., though this marks the first linked to a backyard flock.

The CDC emphasized:

• There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission of H5N1.

• The risk to the general public remains low.

• Precautionary measures should be taken by individuals with close contact with birds, especially in areas affected by outbreaks.

The infected patient was exposed to the D1.1 genotype of the virus, which has been found in wild birds and poultry. This strain is distinct from the B3.13 genotype affecting dairy cattle and has been linked to other human cases globally.

Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency as the bird flu continues to devastate dairy cattle across the state. Since its detection in August, the virus has been identified in nearly 650 dairy operations, with half of the cases emerging in the past month alone.

“This proclamation is a targeted action to ensure government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need to respond quickly to this outbreak,” Newsom stated. While he reiterated that the risk to the public remains minimal, the rapid spread necessitated immediate intervention.

The CDC warns that individuals with occupational or recreational exposure to infected birds or animals are at heightened risk. These groups include:

• Backyard flock owners

• Poultry workers

• Bird hunters and enthusiasts

Precautionary measures, such as wearing protective gear and minimizing contact with potentially infected birds, are strongly advised.

This development underscores the unpredictable nature of zoonotic diseases, as viruses like H5N1 continue to evolve and occasionally jump from animals to humans. With California now under a state of emergency and isolated severe cases appearing in humans, vigilance is critical to containing the virus and preventing further spread.

The CDC and state officials are working closely to monitor the outbreak and ensure preparedness for any potential escalation.

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