A Rare Bird Flu Strain Hits Washington: What You Need to Know

A unique case of bird flu in a human has been reported in Washington state.

Case Details

• Patient: An individual with pre-existing health conditions.
• Symptoms: High fever, confusion, and breathing difficulties.

Virus Information

• Strain: H5N5, typically found in wild birds in the U.S. and Canada.
• Source: Likely from backyard birds, some of which had recently died.

Expert Insights

• Risk to Public: Low.
• Transmission: No evidence of person-to-person spread.
• Monitoring: Over 100 healthcare workers are under observation.

Broader Context

• Comparison: H5N5 is different from the more common H5N1 but behaves similarly.
• Recent Cases: Since 2024, 70 people in the U.S. have contracted bird flu, mostly workers exposed to infected animals.
• Seasonal Trends: Bird flu cases in poultry flocks are rising, particularly with migratory bird movements in colder months.

Ongoing Efforts

• CDC Involvement: Collaborating with Washington state to manage the situation.
• Vigilance: Monitoring for early signs of seasonal flu.