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November 24, 2024
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed a human case of H5N1 bird flu in a child from California, marking the first reported infection of this avian influenza subtype in a U.S. child. The child experienced mild symptoms and is recovering after receiving antiviral treatment, the agency reported.
The CDC noted that the case aligns with previous instances of human infections in the U.S., where symptoms were generally mild. An investigation is underway to determine how the child was exposed to the virus. No evidence of person-to-person transmission has been identified in this or any other H5N1 cases reported in the country.
So far in 2024, the CDC has recorded 55 human cases of H5 bird flu in the U.S., with California accounting for 29 of them. Despite these numbers, the CDC assesses the overall risk to the general public as low.
The agency emphasizes, however, that individuals exposed to infected or potentially infected animals—such as birds or contaminated environments—are at higher risk of contracting the virus.
The CDC advises those working with birds, dairy cattle, or other animals in potentially contaminated environments to follow stringent hygiene and safety measures to reduce the risk of infection.
H5N1 bird flu has been a concern for public health due to its potential to cause outbreaks in birds and, in rare cases, humans. The CDC continues to monitor the situation and collaborate with state and local health departments to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
For more information on H5N1 and protective measures, visit the CDC website.
