Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Feb 16, 2025 1 month, 6 days, 3 hours, 3 minutes ago
U.S. Medical News: First Human Case of Bird Flu Reported in Wyoming
A woman from southeast Wyoming has been hospitalized after being diagnosed with H5N1 bird flu. This is the first confirmed human case of the virus in the state, adding to the growing number of infections in the United States. Health officials from the Wyoming Department of Health announced that the woman, an older adult with preexisting health conditions, likely contracted the virus from her backyard flock of chickens, which had recently fallen ill and died. She is currently receiving medical treatment in another state.
https://health.wyo.gov/wyomings-first-human-bird-flu-case-confirmed/
Wyoming Woman Hospitalized with H5N1 Bird Flu
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been closely monitoring the spread of bird flu among both animals and humans. According to CDC data, nearly 70 people in the U.S. have been infected with H5N1 in the past year.
However, researchers believe the actual number of cases may be higher due to undetected or unreported infections.
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/u-s-cdc-study-reveals-silent-spread-of-h5n1-bird-flu-among-veterinarians-with-implications-that-cases-are-being-undercounted
This
U.S. Medical News report aims to break down the details of this case and its wider implications in an easy-to-understand manner for the general public.
How the Infection May Have Spread
The woman’s direct contact with her sick birds is believed to be the most likely source of her infection. H5N1 is known to spread through exposure to infected birds, including their saliva, mucus, or droppings. People who handle sick or dead birds without proper protective gear are at higher risk.
While most human cases of bird flu result in mild symptoms such as fever, cough, and body aches, this particular case has been more severe. Wyoming’s state health officer and epidemiologist, Dr. Alexia Harrist, emphasized that while this development is serious, it does not pose a significant threat to the general public.
Bird Flu in the United States
H5N1 has been present in wild birds across the U.S. since 2022 and has more recently been detected in dairy cows. The virus has spread to over 960 dairy herds across 16 states. Health officials remain concerned about the increasing number of cases, especially as the virus adapts to different species.
So far, the U.S. CDC has not found evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus, meaning that the risk of a large outbreak among people remains low. However, health experts continue to monitor the situation closely.
Precautiona
ry Measures and Recommendations
Health officials urge the public to take precautions to reduce the risk of bird flu infection. People should avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds and should not consume raw or undercooked poultry products. Additionally, consuming raw milk or dairy products from infected animals may increase the risk of exposure.
The CDC advises poultry workers, veterinarians, and individuals who regularly handle birds to wear protective gear and follow hygiene protocols. Anyone who experiences flu-like symptoms after handling birds should seek medical attention promptly.
Conclusion
The case of the hospitalized Wyoming woman highlights the ongoing spread of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S. While health officials do not believe the general public is at significant risk, they emphasize the importance of taking preventive measures, particularly for those who work with animals. The virus continues to spread among wild birds and livestock, making it essential for authorities to stay vigilant.
As bird flu cases in animals increase, health officials are concerned about potential risks to humans, particularly those with weakened immune systems or existing health conditions. Although there is no sign of human-to-human transmission at this time, monitoring and research remain critical in understanding how the virus might evolve. People are advised to stay informed and follow health guidelines to reduce exposure risks.
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Read Also:
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/h5n1-bird-flu-vaccines-are-accelerating-viral-evolution-as-currently-observed-in-china
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/czech-republic-scientists-warn-that-h5n1-bird-flu-virus-is-windborne-and-can-spread-across-several-kilometers
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/h5n1-avian-flu
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