First US Human Case of ‘Rare Bird Flu Strain’ Confirmed in Washington

Health officials in Washington have confirmed the first US human case of bird flu in nine months. The patient is an older adult with underlying health conditions and is infected with H5N5.

This strain has been detected in animals but has never been found in humans.

The patient was hospitalised in early November after developing a high fever, confusion and respiratory distress.

State epidemiologist Scott Lindquist said during a briefing that “this is a severely ill patient,” according to The Washington Post. Officials say the risk to the public is low.

The person keeps a mixed backyard flock that had contact with wild birds. State and federal agencies are investigating the source of infection.

The Washington Post also reported that health authorities have confirmed “no additional individuals other than the patient who is infected with H5N5.”

Bird flu originates in wild aquatic birds. It can spread to poultry and sometimes mammals. Human infections are rare and usually linked to direct exposure to sick animals.

Cases typically rise in the colder months when migratory birds spread the virus.