MERCEER COUNTY, OHIO – The first human case of bird flu in 2025 has been confirmed in the Miami Valley region. This case has raised concerns among health officials and the public in Ohio.
Reports from local News Center 7 indicate that the infected individual is a farm worker who came into contact with dead commercial poultry, resulting in the transmission of the virus. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has identified this as the first human case of bird flu in the state.
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. The virus can enter the body through the eyes, nose, mouth, or via inhalation, highlighting the importance of maintaining proper hygiene practices.
In response to the confirmed case, the ODH has advised the public to avoid direct contact with wild birds, as well as sick or deceased poultry. By taking precautions and raising awareness about the risks associated with bird flu, health officials aim to prevent further spread of the virus in the community.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have assessed the current risk of bird flu as low for the general public, the emergence of a human case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to protect public health.
Updates on the situation will be provided as new information becomes available, as health authorities work to contain the spread of bird flu in Mercer County.