On April 1st, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States reported a case of human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The case emerged in Texas, where the infected individual had been in contact with cows suspected of carrying the H5N1 avian influenza virus.
Cows Tested Positive for Avian Influenza Virus Raises Concerns
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) made headlines after confirming a positive test result for avian influenza. This marks the first instance of human infection from a mammal with avian flu. The patient's sole symptom is inflamed eyes, and they are currently undergoing treatment with antiviral medication.
The H5N1 strain of avian influenza has led to a sharp decline in bird populations worldwide. Last week, cows in Texas, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, and Idaho tested positive for the H5N1 virus. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) stated that it's currently unclear how they became infected, suggesting a possible spread of the virus among animals.
Previously, mammals were only confirmed to contract the virus from infected birds. Richard Webby from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in the US stated, "There have been several outbreaks in animals without humans included, which might indicate that the virus is only spreading among mammals." For instance, last year, 17,000 elephant seals died from avian flu in Argentina. In 2022, mink farms in Spain also experienced outbreaks. However, Webby mentioned that in such cases, it's difficult to rule out other possible sources of the virus, such as contaminated food.
Despite recent cases of human infection with avian flu, the CDC reassures that for most people, the risk of contracting it remains low. However, those who have close contact with infected birds, livestock, or other animals face greater risks and should take appropriate precautions. Additionally, while pasteurized milk remains safe, citizens are advised to avoid consuming or handling raw milk products.
Currently, the CDC is collaborating with state health departments across the US to continue monitoring individuals who may have come into contact with avian influenza-infected poultry or other animals, and to test those displaying related symptoms.
