First U.S. Death from H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmed in Louisiana
The Louisiana case involved the D1.1 clade of H5N1, a strain circulating in wild birds and poultry. This variant differs from others affecting dairy cattle and was linked to a critical case in a Canadian teenager, who ultimately recovered after intensive care.
The first known human death from H5N1 bird flu in the United States has been confirmed by the Louisiana Department of Health. The victim, an individual over 65 years old with underlying health conditions, contracted the virus after exposure to a backyard flock and wild birds.
Despite thorough investigations, Louisiana health officials have not identified additional human cases linked to this infection.
Dr. Richard Webby, director of the World Health Organization’s Collaborating Center for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, described the development as tragic but anticipated. “We’ve studied this virus for over 25 years, and this is likely the nastiest variant we’ve seen. That it has caused a fatal infection is not surprising,” he said.
A Global Perspective on H5N1
Since 2003, the World Health Organization has recorded around 900 human cases of H5N1 worldwide, with a case fatality rate of approximately 50%. However, experts believe the actual fatality rate may be lower due to underreporting of mild cases. Even with a reduced fatality rate of 5%, the virus remains highly concerning compared to the estimated 2.6% fatality rate of the original COVID-19 strain.
The Louisiana case involved the D1.1 clade of H5N1, a strain circulating in wild birds and poultry. This variant differs from others affecting dairy cattle and was linked to a critical case in a Canadian teenager, who ultimately recovered after intensive care.
Evolving Risks and CDC Analysis
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted genetic changes in the virus from the Louisiana patient, suggesting an increased ability to infect human upper airways and potential for easier person-to-person transmission. These mutations, however, were not observed in the birds the patient encountered, indicating they developed post-infection. CDC officials are examining blood samples to further understand the virus’s evolution.
Despite these findings, the CDC maintains that the overall risk to the public remains low. “No person-to-person transmission has been identified, and no significant virologic changes have been detected in wild birds or poultry to raise the risk to human health,” the agency said in a statement.
Preventative Measures and Public Safety
Health officials urge caution for individuals who work with birds or livestock, as well as those exposed to sick or dead animals. Recommendations include:
- Avoid direct contact with sick or dead animals or their droppings.
- Keep pets away from sick animals and their waste.
- Cook poultry, eggs, and animal products thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination.
- Avoid consuming raw milk or unpasteurized dairy products from infected animals.
- Monitor for symptoms such as respiratory issues or red eyes after exposure and inform healthcare providers of recent contact with animals.
For backyard poultry keepers and farmworkers, health professionals recommend seasonal flu vaccinations to reduce the risk of co-infection with common flu strains.
Reporting Concerns
The USDA encourages reporting dead or sick birds or animals to its hotline at 1-866-536-7593.
While the Louisiana case marks a significant development, experts emphasize vigilance and preventive actions to minimize risks and prevent future infections.
