Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Feb 13, 2025 5 hours, 47 minutes ago
U.S. Medical News: First Human Case of Bird Flu Confirmed in Ohio
The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has confirmed the state’s first human case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu. The case involves a farm worker from Mercer County who had direct contact with infected poultry. This development places Ohio among the growing number of states in the United States reporting human cases of the virus this year.
Health officials told
U.S. Medical News reporters that while the overall risk to the public remains low, individuals who work closely with birds, particularly in poultry farms and agricultural settings, should take necessary precautions to prevent exposure. This article highlights the details of Ohio’s first human case, the broader bird flu situation in the country, and important safety measures recommended by health authorities.
Bird Flu Cases on the Rise Nationwide
Since the beginning of 2024, the United States has recorded 68 human cases of bird flu across 11 states, including a fatal case in Louisiana. Most of these infections resulted from direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, with only a few cases involving other sources of transmission. Ohio’s first case follows a similar trend, as the infected individual was working with deceased poultry known to be carrying the H5N1 virus.
The Ohio Department of Health reassured the public that bird flu does not typically spread from human to human. However, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, particularly given the increasing outbreaks among poultry farms. Health experts warn that continued surveillance and strict biosecurity measures are essential to prevent further spread, especially within the agricultural sector.
Understanding H5N1 and Its Global Impact
H5N1, a highly contagious strain of bird flu, has been a growing concern worldwide. The latest strain, known as clade 2.3.4.4b, has demonstrated the ability to spread to mammals, including humans, raising new questions about its potential risks. Since 2022, this strain has led to 90 reported human infections and two deaths globally, with the United States accounting for the majority of cases. Other affected countries include the United Kingdom, Spain, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, and China.
The first confirmed U.S. death from H5N1 occurred in Louisiana, where an individual was exposed to infected poultry.
Nevada also recently reported its first human case linked to infected dairy cattle, further highlighting the evolving nature of the virus.
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/new-h5n1-bird-flu-strain-in-cows-infects-nevada-dairy-worker
These developments underscore the importance of ongoing research and preparedness efforts to mitigate potential health risks associated with bird flu.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
Public health officials stress that the best way to reduce the risk of infection is to avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds, as well as their environments. Proper protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, is recommended for farm workers and individuals handling poultry. The Oh
io Department of Health has also reiterated that properly cooked poultry and pasteurized dairy products remain safe to consume when following proper food safety guidelines.
ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff emphasized the importance of vigilance in agricultural settings, stating, “While the risk to Ohioans is low, the best way to prevent bird flu is to avoid unprotected exposures to sick or dead birds or to their environment. People should avoid direct contact with poultry or wild birds and take proper precautions.”
Health authorities are working closely with local and federal agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to monitor the situation and provide necessary guidance to those at risk. As part of these efforts, Ohio has intensified its surveillance and response strategies to contain the outbreak and prevent additional cases.
Conclusion
Ohio’s first human case of bird flu serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks associated with H5N1, particularly for those working in close proximity to poultry. While the virus remains primarily an animal health issue, its occasional spillover into humans warrants continued vigilance. Experts stress the importance of biosecurity measures, protective equipment, and timely reporting of suspected cases to prevent further spread. As researchers continue to study the evolving virus, public health officials remain committed to safeguarding both animal and human health through proactive monitoring and preventive strategies.
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U.S. Medical News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/new-h5n1-genotype-d1-1-that-is-more-lethal-to-humans-found-infecting-dairy-herds-in-nevada
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/h5n1-bird-flu-vaccines-are-accelerating-viral-evolution-as-currently-observed-in-china
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/usda-and-aphis-warns-of-more-domestic-cats-getting-infected-with-h5n1-in-the-united-states
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/h5n1-avian-flu
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