Health authorities in Washington state have confirmed that a resident has been hospitalized with an H5N5 bird flu infection, marking a rare occurrence of human infection in the United States. The strain identified in this patient has not previously been seen in humans, making it a notable case, though federal officials maintain that the risk to the general population remains low. According to a report by CNN, investigators have not yet determined exactly how the virus was contracted, but early indications suggest that backyard poultry could be involved, prompting ongoing investigations by both health and agricultural agencies.
The patient, described as an older adult from Grays Harbor County with preexisting medical conditions, has been hospitalized since early November. This case represents the first reported human infection with avian influenza in the United States in nine months. Despite the novelty of the strain in humans, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to consider the overall threat to the wider population limited.
Avian influenza is known to spread through an infected animal’s saliva, mucus, feces, and, in the case of dairy cattle, milk. Transmission risks tend to increase during late fall and winter when migratory birds interact with domestic flocks. While avian influenza has circulated among wild birds globally for years, the current U.S. outbreak, which began in January 2022, has seen more infections in mammals than previous outbreaks.
No evidence currently indicates human-to-human transmission of this strain in the United States. Washington state officials are, however, monitoring individuals who may have been in close contact with the patient to identify symptoms and provide testing or preventive treatment. Although the immediate risk is considered low, experts continue to stress the potential dangers. Dr. Richard Webby, an influenza researcher, noted the uncertainty surrounding the virus’s evolution, stating that it possesses “pandemic potential.” He explained, “I think it’s clear it’s not an easy leap for this virus to make, to switch from being a duck virus to being a human virus. I think that’s pretty clear, but I certainly wouldn’t put money on the fact that it can’t make that leap. It’s going to take a little bit of the biologic stars aligning for that to happen. We could argue exactly how likely that is, but no one actually knows. Only time will tell us, unfortunately.”
The CDC reports that 70 human cases have occurred in the U.S. during the ongoing outbreak. One elderly patient with preexisting medical conditions died in January, while most cases have been mild, presenting symptoms like fever or red eyes. Individuals who have been infected are largely those with frequent, direct contact with animals: 41 cases among cattle workers, 24 among poultry workers, two with other animal exposure, and three with no identifiable source.
Health authorities advise that individuals who regularly handle animals wear proper protective equipment and exercise caution around animal waste. Washington’s Department of Health recommends that residents cleaning bird feeders or areas contaminated by bird droppings wear gloves and disinfect surfaces with commercial products like Lysol or a bleach solution prepared by mixing one part bleach with ten parts water. People should avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife, using gloves, a well-fitting mask, and an inverted plastic bag when disposing of carcasses. Double-bagging and sealing the trash helps prevent scavengers from accessing the remains, and thorough handwashing afterward is essential.
Officials also caution against consuming undercooked or unpasteurized meat and dairy products, including raw milk and cheese. Public health leaders encourage receiving the seasonal influenza vaccine. While the standard flu shot does not protect against avian influenza, it reduces the chance of simultaneous infection with both seasonal and avian flu viruses, a scenario that could allow the bird flu virus to mutate into a form capable of more efficient human transmission.
Staying Vigilant Against Bird Flu Risks
While the risk to the general public remains low, health authorities emphasize continued vigilance and precautionary measures. Proper hygiene, protective equipment, and responsible handling of wildlife and poultry are critical in reducing potential exposure. Monitoring, preventive guidance, and vaccination remain essential tools in limiting both individual and broader public health risks.
