Bird flu claimed its first life in the United States, as confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The victim, a Louisiana resident over the age of 65 with pre-existing medical problems, He contracted the virus after coming into contact with sick birds in a home chicken coop. Genetic analyzes of the virus suggest that it mutated within the patient, probably aggravating his illness.
This case is part of the 66 infections confirmed cases of avian flu in humans in the country since last March, although the previous symptoms were mild and occurred mainly in agricultural workers exposed to infected birds.
Bird flu: A historically lethal virus
The H5N1 bird flu virus is not new on the health radar. Since 2003, it has caused more than 460 deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Jennifer Nuzzo, director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University, highlighted the seriousness of the virus and called the death a “tragic reminder” of its lethality.
In a recent case, a Canadian teenager became seriously ill after contracting H5N1, reinforcing uncertainty about the factors that cause severe illness in some patients and mild illness in others. Nuzzo warned that the current mild cases do not guarantee the same trend in the future.
Despite the death, the CDC emphasized that There is no evidence of significant mutations that increase the risk of transmission between humans. Additionally, authorities have found no signs that the virus is spreading from person to person. However, 2 recent cases in Missouri and California, whose source of infection remains unclear, maintain active surveillance.
H5N1 continues to spread widely among wild birds, poultry, and other animals, increasing the likelihood of human exposure. The case in Louisiana marks the first infection in the US associated with a domestic farm, according to the CDC.
Given this panorama, the authorities reiterate the importance of following protective measures. Those handling sick or dead birds should wear protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and masks. These precautions not only reduce the risk of infection, but also help slow the spread of the virus.
Although the risk of sustained human-to-human transmission remains low, there is a need for constant surveillance. The virus has proven to be a persistent and lethal threat, and its growing presence in the environment requires a coordinated response between health authorities and the public.
Keep reading:
* Agriculture Department Orders Federal Bird Flu Testing of Milk
* Four Colorado poultry workers diagnosed with bird flu
* Bird flu exposed: 5 keys to understanding its global reach