Shocking Bird Flu Case In Missouri
Health authorities have reported a case of bird flu in a Missouri resident with no identifiable contact with poultry, dairy cattle, or wild birds. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the patient, who was hospitalized and had pre-existing health conditions, received antiviral treatment and has since recovered. The CDC noted that there was no indication of exposure to animals or ongoing transmission among close contacts.
This case marks the 14th occurrence of H5 bird flu in the U.S. in 2024, and is particularly noteworthy because it is the first instance not linked to direct contact with infected animals. Despite this, the CDC asserts that the risk to the public remains minimal, with no unusual flu activity reported in Missouri or other states.
The patient was admitted to the hospital on August 22. It remains unclear whether their hospitalization was due to the bird flu or their pre-existing conditions. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has indicated that the patient did not consume raw milk, which could harbor the bird flu virus.
While bird flu has been identified in nearly 200 dairy herds across 14 states, Missouri is not affected. The virus has also impacted commercial and backyard poultry flocks as well as wild birds. This case, discovered through routine influenza surveillance, underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and vigilance.
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