Topline
A person in Colorado has examined constructive for an H5 fowl flu virus, state officials and the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention stated on Thursday, marking the primary recorded human an infection within the U.S. of the extremely contagious virus that’s ripping by business flocks and wild birds, however that consultants say poses little risk to people.
The primary human case of fowl flu linked to a present outbreak has been detected within the U.S.
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Key Information
The Colorado Division of Public Well being and Surroundings (CDPHE) stated the person is incarcerated at a state correctional facility and was uncovered to contaminated poultry whereas working at a business farm in Montrose County.
The person examined constructive for an avian influenza A(H5) virus earlier this week and the CDC confirmed the consequence on Wednesday, the CDPHE stated, although repeat testing was damaging for influenza.
It’s potential the individual could not have really been contaminated with the virus, the CDPHE famous, suggesting the virus could have been current in his nostril on account of shut contact with contaminated poultry however didn’t trigger an an infection.
The person—described as youthful than 40, “largely asymptomatic” and reporting solely fatigue—is now isolating and taking the antiviral drug oseltamivir, often known as tamiflu, the CDPHE stated.
No different instances have been confirmed in people in Colorado or the U.S., the CDPHE stated.
Essential Quote
“We need to reassure Coloradans that the chance to them is low,” said Dr. Rachel Herlihy, a state epidemiologist on the Colorado Division of Public Well being and Surroundings.
Stunning Truth
It is just the second human an infection attributable to this specific model of the H5N1 avian flu to be recorded around the globe, the first being an aged British man who lived with quite a few geese inside his residence in December.
Key Background
The H5N1 influenza is a sort of flu virus that primarily infects birds, although it could infect people. It may be deadly and extremely contagious and is devastating to each wild and business fowl populations. Outbreaks throughout Europe and the U.S. imply millions of birds have already been culled to cease the unfold and well being officers have warned folks to keep away from contact with birds that seem sick or are lifeless. Many fowl house owners, corresponding to zoos, have chosen to relocate them inside to cut back the chance of publicity from wild birds.
Large Quantity
33 million. That’s the variety of home birds the newest outbreak of fowl flu within the U.S. has affected, according to the U.S. Division of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Well being Inspection Service. It has been confirmed in 29 states, the company stated.
Additional Studying
Costco’s Rotisserie Rooster Provide Threatened By Chicken Flu (Forbes)
Zoos across North America are moving birds indoors to protect them from avian flu (NPR)
