United States reports its first human death from H5N1 bird flu

JUST IN – U.S. reports its first human death from H5N1 bird flu.

— Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) January 6, 2025

• First Death Confirmed: The Louisiana Department of Health announced the death on January 6, 2025, highlighting that this is the first human fatality from this strain in the U.S. The patient had been hospitalized with a severe case of H5N1 bird flu, which was confirmed by the CDC.
• Exposure Details: The patient contracted the virus from a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds, underscoring the dangers of close contact with potentially infected animals. This case has pushed for a reevaluation of how individuals interact with their backyard poultry.
• Genetic Mutation Concerns: Genetic analysis revealed mutations in the virus that could enhance its ability to bind to human cells, increasing the potential for human-to-human transmission. This development is particularly worrying as it could signal the beginning of a more significant outbreak if not contained.
• Statistics and Case Counts: Since the outbreak began in 2024, the U.S. has seen 66 confirmed human cases of H5N1. Most cases have been mild, but this death reminds us that the virus can be deadly, especially to those with underlying health issues.
• Public Health Risk: Despite this death, the CDC maintains that the risk to the general public remains low. However, the risk is significantly higher for individuals working with or around birds. This has led to a push for increased vigilance among those in high-risk occupations.
• Prevention and Response: Health officials are urging the public to avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds, not to consume uncooked poultry, and to ensure that any poultry or eggs are thoroughly cooked. Recommendations also include avoiding unpasteurized milk, as the virus has been detected in dairy cow herds in several states.
• Quotes from Officials: The Louisiana Department of Health expressed condolences and emphasized that there’s no evidence of person-to-person transmission yet, but they stressed the importance of preventive measures. The CDC echoed this sentiment, stating they are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any escalation.