A resident of southwestern Louisiana has become the first American to fall critically ill with the H5N1 bird flu, according to the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). The individual, who had contact with sick and dead birds in backyard flocks, is currently hospitalized. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working with LDH on the epidemiologic investigation.
The H5N1 virus, known for causing severe respiratory disease in birds, has been present in the U.S. since 2022. While there have been 60 confirmed human cases this year, most were mild and linked to farmworkers exposed to infected poultry or dairy cows. This Louisiana case marks the first severe human illness in the U.S. linked to a backyard flock.
Health officials emphasize that the risk to the general public remains low, as there has been no documented human-to-human transmission of the virus. The CDC confirmed the Louisiana infection last Friday but announced it on Wednesday (December 18). They advise avoiding direct contact with wild birds and infected animals to prevent exposure.
The Louisiana Department of Health advises people who work with birds or have recreational exposure to them to be vigilant. If symptoms like respiratory issues or conjunctivitis appear within 10 days of exposure, individuals should seek medical advice and mention their contact with sick animals.
The CDC has noted that bird flu remains primarily an animal health issue. Meanwhile, experts continue to monitor the situation closely, as the virus’s spread among animals raises concerns about potential mutations that could increase human transmission.
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