A person in Texas has tested positive for Avian Flu, also known as bird flu, marking the second human case in the United States. This development follows reports of bird flu cases in mammals in three U.S. states: Washington, Kentucky, and Montana. The individual in Texas came into close contact with infected cows, leading to the contraction of the flu. The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed the diagnosis on April 1, with the patient showing symptoms of “pink eye,” or conjunctivitis. Officials reassured the public that the risk of transmission to the general population remains low despite the new case.
This incident represents the first reported case of the highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza in humans in Texas, indicating an expansion of the virus. The individual in Colorado was the first to be infected with H5N1 after direct contact with infected poultry. Concerns have been raised about the potential spread of avian flu to humans as a result of cases in mammals, prompting heightened vigilance among health authorities.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a joint statement on March 29 to address the situation. They emphasized that there is no safety concern regarding dairy products in the U.S., as pasteurization ensures the safety of these products. Despite previous warnings about the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 circulating among marine mammals, officials have clarified that there is no immediate threat to the public.
While two confirmed cases of avian flu in humans have been reported, the likelihood of a widespread outbreak remains low. The majority of human infections caused by avian influenza viruses worldwide have been attributed to the Asian lineage of the bird flu virus (H7N9) and the highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus. Symptoms of avian flu in humans may include mild fever, conjunctivitis, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, and in severe cases, gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Overall, the emergence of additional cases of avian flu, both in humans and animals, underscores the importance of monitoring and swiftly responding to potential outbreaks to prevent further transmission and protect public health. Vigilance, collaboration between health agencies, and public awareness are essential in mitigating the risks associated with avian flu and ensuring a timely and effective response to any future developments.