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Washington State health officials confirm first human case of H5N5 bird flu
The infected patient had pre-existing conditions and exposure to domestic and wild birds, marking the first human H5N5 case in the U.S., health officials said.
- Earlier this month, Washington state health officials confirmed the first U.S. human H5N5 infection in a Grays Harbor County resident hospitalized with severe flu-like symptoms.
- The patient kept a mixed backyard flock of domestic poultry, and investigators believe the infection most likely came from these birds or wild aquatic birds they interacted with.
- Lab results showed laboratory analysis first identified influenza A H5, then confirmed H5N5; humans typically become infected after unprotected contact with birds or contaminated environments, with transmission routes including respiratory secretions, feces, droplets, dust, and contaminated surfaces.
- Health officials say public risk remains low, but the Washington State Department of Health is working with local public health officials and the Washington State Department of Agriculture on investigations and contact monitoring.
- Because H5 viruses can reassort, the World Organisation for Animal Health warns of new variant risks, and health agencies urge people who handle birds to use protective gear, report sick animals, avoid wildlife, and stay current on seasonal flu vaccination during the fall and winter season.
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Health authorities in Washington state confirmed the first human infection with the H5N5 avian influenza virus, a strain that had so far only been detected in animals.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left1Leaning Right3Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution43% Center, 43% Right
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources are Center, 43% of the sources lean Right
43% Right
14%
C 43%
R 43%
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