H5n1

A patient has been hospitalized with a severe case of avian influenza A(H5N1) virus ("H5N1 bird flu") infection in Louisiana, as announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This marks the first instance of severe illness linked to the virus in the United States. 

Since April 2024, there have been a total of 61 reported human cases of H5 bird flu reported in the United States. This H5N1 bird flu genotype is different than the genotype detected in dairy cows, sporadic human cases in multiple states, and some poultry outbreaks in the United States. 

While an investigation into the source of the infection in Louisiana is ongoing, it has been determined that the patient had exposure to sick and dead birds in backyard flocks. This is the first case of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S. that has been linked to exposure to a backyard flock. A sporadic case of severe H5N1 bird flu illness in a person is not unexpected; avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection has previously been associated with severe human illness in other countries during 2024 and prior years, including illness resulting in death. No person-to-person spread of H5 bird flu has been detected. This case does not change CDC's overall assessment of the immediate risk to the public's health from H5N1 bird flu, which remains low.

This case underscores that, in addition to affected commercial poultry and dairy operations, wild birds and backyard flocks also can be a source of exposure. People with work or recreational exposures to infected animals are at higher risk of infection and should follow CDC's recommended precautions when around animals that are infected or potentially infected with H5N1 avian influenza virus. 

The best way to prevent H5 bird flu is to avoid exposure whenever possible. Infected birds shed avian influenza A viruses in their saliva, mucous, and feces. Other infected animals may shed avian influenza A viruses in respiratory secretions and other bodily fluids.

• As a general precaution, whenever possible, people should avoid contact with sick or dead animals, in particular wild birds, and poultry.

• For individuals with direct/close contact with wild birds or sick or dead poultry or other animals, wear recommended personal protective equipment (PPE). Wild birds can be infected with avian influenza A viruses even if they don't look sick.

• Do not touch surfaces or materials (e.g., animal litter or bedding material) contaminated with saliva, mucous, or animal feces from wild or domestic birds or other animals with confirmed or suspected avian influenza A virus infection.