CDC Confirms US’s First Case of Mild H5N1 Bird Flu in Child
First Case Confirmed
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed the country’s first case of H5N1 bird flu infection in a child, who experienced mild symptoms and is recovering from their illness. California’s public health department reported the case on Tuesday, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus.
No Evidence of Person-to-Person Spread
The CDC confirmed that currently, there is no evidence of person-to-person spread of H5N1 bird flu from this child to others, but stated that it will continue contact tracing. The child’s family members tested negative, and the child received flu antivirals. Low levels of viral material were found in the initial specimen, with a follow-up test revealing the presence of other common respiratory viruses.
No Person-to-Person Spread in US Cases
So far, there has been no person-to-person spread associated with any of the H5N1 bird flu cases reported in the US, according to the CDC. The agency maintained the risk for the general public remains low.
Update on US Bird Flu Cases
Including this child’s case, 55 human cases of H5 bird flu have now been reported in the country this year, with 29 in California, according to the CDC. Most US bird flu cases have occurred among farm workers in contact with poultry or cows that were infected with the virus.
Prevention Measures
California public health officials are monitoring animal and human infections carefully, as bird flu viruses can mutate and gain the ability to spread easily between people. The CDC and state departments have urged residents to avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds.
Conclusion
While the first case of H5N1 bird flu in a child has been confirmed in the US, there is no evidence of person-to-person spread. The CDC and state health departments will continue to monitor the situation and take preventive measures to minimize the risk of transmission.
FAQs
Q: How many human cases of H5N1 bird flu have been reported in the US this year?
A: 55 human cases have been reported in the US this year, with 29 in California.
Q: Has there been any evidence of person-to-person spread of H5N1 bird flu?
A: No, there has been no evidence of person-to-person spread of H5N1 bird flu from this child or any other reported cases in the US.
Q: What measures are being taken to prevent the spread of H5N1 bird flu?
A: California public health officials are monitoring animal and human infections carefully, and the CDC and state departments have urged residents to avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds.
