The first confirmed human case of the H5N5 bird flu strain has been reported in Washington state, marking a significant development in avian influenza cases in the U.S.
The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed the first-ever human case of the H5N5 bird flu strain in the United States. A resident of Grays Harbor County is currently hospitalized with this rare avian influenza strain, which has never before been seen in humans.
This case also represents the first human bird flu diagnosis in the country since February. The patient, described by health officials as “an older adult with underlying health conditions,” began exhibiting influenza-like symptoms in early November and remains hospitalized.
According to the DOH, the individual had a mixed backyard flock of domestic poultry at home that had exposure to wild birds. Subsequent testing confirmed the virus as H5N5, an avian influenza virus previously reported in animals but never documented in humans.
Public health experts have indicated that domestic poultry and wild birds are the most likely sources of the virus exposure. However, the investigation into the case is ongoing. So far, health officials have not identified any increased risk to the public.
The report states, “Transmission of avian influenza between humans is extremely rare and has never been documented in the United States.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the DOH currently consider the risk to the public from avian influenza to be low.
In light of this case, the DOH is urging poultry owners, wildlife handlers, and others who have contact with animals to exercise caution. Recommended measures include avoiding contact with sick or dead birds, using appropriate protective equipment, and reporting any sick wildlife or domestic animals to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA).
While the seasonal flu vaccine does not prevent bird flu infections, the DOH emphasizes its importance. They warn that infection with both the seasonal flu and avian influenza viruses could lead to the emergence of a new virus that is more easily transmitted from person to person.
Earlier this year, the CDC declared the bird flu emergency officially over. The agency’s emergency response to H5N1 bird flu, which was activated in 2024, was deactivated on July 2, following a decline in animal infections and the absence of human cases since February.
The H5N5 virus is closely related to H5N1. Although both viruses originate from birds and share part of their genetic code, H5N5 has a different “end piece” in its structure, which alters its behavior, according to health experts.
While H5N1 has been responsible for human illness and fatalities for years, H5N5 has primarily affected birds until this recent case.
As health officials continue to monitor the situation, they remain vigilant in their efforts to mitigate any potential risks associated with avian influenza.
Source: Original article