Update on bird flu: Maps reveal the most affected states
A Louisiana resident has been identified as the first serious case of avian influenza, also known as bird flu, in the U.S., and has recently been hospitalized, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC found that the individual likely contracted H5N1 from interacting with sick or deceased birds in a backyard flock—the first reported case linked to such a flock in the U.S. Since April 2024, there have been 61 human cases of bird flu identified in the country.
Currently, the virus spreads only from animals to humans, posing a lower public health threat. If it were to begin spreading between people, it would raise significant health concerns. The CDC’s statement indicated that despite the Louisiana case, the overall risk to public health from H5N1 remains low.
Bird flu cases reported in eight states during 2024
On Wednesday, officials in Wisconsin reported a potential bird flu case in a person who had contact with sick birds at a commercial poultry farm. This case has not yet been confirmed by the CDC.
This week, California proclaimed a state of emergency due to rising bird flu concerns. The illness has impacted dairy cattle in the state, resulting in multiple human cases.
Bird flu virus outbreak found in both commercial poultry and backyard birds
As of December 19, the CDC reports that over the past three years, bird flu has affected more than 125 million birds across 569 counties and in all 50 states in the U.S.
The CDC recommends that individuals involved with backyard bird flocks, hunters, and bird lovers take additional safety measures when they are around or have recreational contact with birds or livestock.
What are the symptoms of bird flu in humans?
While it’s still rare for bird flu to infect humans, transmission can occur through the mouth, eyes, or nose. In certain instances, individuals may inhale the virus after coming into contact with an infected bird.
â—¾ Mild symptoms may include: fever, cough, sore throat, body ache, eye infections (conjunctivitis), runny or stuffy nose, fatigue, and muscle pain.
â—¾ Severe symptoms can include: difficulty breathing, high fever (100 degrees or more), pneumonia (which may require hospitalization), and serious respiratory issues.
This article was revised to include the latest updates.
