First H5 Bird Flu Death Reported in United States
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 6, 2025
Contact: CDC Press Office
MediaLine@cdc.gov
Atlanta,GA – The Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) is reporting the first human death in the United States associated with avian influenza A(H5N1) virus (“H5N1 bird flu“).The individual, who resided in [State], became ill in [Month] 2024 and passed away on [Date].
The patient had known exposure to poultry. Prior to their illness, they were involved in the culling of birds infected with H5N1 virus.The CDC and state health officials are conducting a thorough investigation to determine if any close contacts experienced exposure and to assess for any additional cases.
“We are saddened to report this death and our thoughts are with the family,” said [Name and Title of CDC Official]. “This case underscores the importance of taking precautions when working with or around poultry, especially during outbreaks. While the risk to the general public remains low, it is indeed crucial to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases to public health officials.”
H5N1 viruses primarily circulate among birds, but sporadic human infections have occurred, typically following close contact with infected birds. Symptoms in humans can range from mild, such as eye or respiratory symptoms, to severe, including pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and death.
Key Recommendations:
Avoid contact with wild birds and poultry: Do not touch sick or dead birds.
Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being around birds.
Report sick or dead birds: Contact your state’s animal health agency if you find sick or dead birds.
If you work with poultry: Follow biosecurity measures recommended by animal health officials.
The CDC continues to monitor the H5N1 situation closely and will provide updates as more facts becomes available.
###
January 6,2025 — The CDC is saddened by Louisiana’s report of a death in a person previously hospitalized with severe avian influenza A(H5N1) illness (“H5N1 bird flu”). while tragic, a death from H5N1 bird flu in the United States isn’t unexpected, given the virus’s potential to cause severe illness and death. As of January 6, 2025, there have been 66 confirmed human cases of H5N1 bird flu in the United States as 2024 and 67 since 2022. This is the first death in the United states attributed to this strain.
The individual was exposed to poultry. The CDC is working closely with state health officials to investigate this case and determine if any other exposures occurred. Currently, the CDC believes the risk to the general public remains low. However, people who work closely with birds, especially poultry, should take precautions.
what you should know:
- H5N1 bird flu primarily spreads between birds.
- Human infections are rare but can occur through close contact with infected birds.
- Symptoms in humans can include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and difficulty breathing.
- There is no vaccine specifically for H5N1 bird flu in humans, but antiviral drugs can be used to treat infections.
Protect yourself:
- Avoid contact with wild or domestic birds that appear sick or have died.
- Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.
- If you work with poultry, follow biosecurity measures recommended by animal health officials.
- Report sick or dead birds to your local animal health authorities.
The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available. You can find the latest information on H5N1 bird flu on the CDC website and the USDA website.
Keep reading