Missouri’s first human case of avian influenza, or H5 bird flu, has been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says the unidentified patient who tested positive also has underlying medical conditions. The patient, who has recovered from the virus, reported no exposure to animals.
The risk of sustained transmission or infection among the general public remains low.
The case was identified through the department’s influenza surveillance program. A sample of the patient’s blood, fluid, or body tissue was sent to the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory after their hospitalization on August 22. It was sent to the CDC for additional testing and confirmed as H5 bird flu.
Additional virus testing is ongoing.
H5 is primarily found in wild birds and poultry, and recently in dairy cows and other animals. It can occasionally infect humans through close contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. There have not been any H5 infections in Missouri’s dairy cattle, but some cases have been found in commercial or backyard flocks and wild birds.
The Missouri Department of Health is continuing to monitor available data, and there is no sign of unusual flu activity. Nor has there been an increase in emergency room visits for influenza or lab detection of human cases in Missouri.
Nationally, this marks the first case that was detected as part of the surveillance system.
Click here for more information on avian influenza.
Copyright © 2024 Missourinet