CDC CONFIRMS FIRST HUMAN BIRD FLU CASE WITH NO ANIMAL EXPOSURE; WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

The United States has reported its first case of bird flu (H5 avian influenza) without any known animal contact. The case was confirmed in an adult patient from Missouri, who was hospitalized on August 22. The patient, who had underlying health conditions, received antiviral treatment and has since recovered, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Missouri Department of Health.

The patient’s initial flu test showed irregularities, prompting further testing in both state and federal labs. The results confirmed it was H5 avian flu, marking the 14th case in the US this year but the first without direct contact with animals.

Health officials are investigating the patient’s exposure, though there have been no signs of transmission to close contacts or others. The CDC reassured the public that the risk of wider spread remains low but acknowledged that circumstances may evolve as more information is uncovered.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of bird flu in humans can resemble common flu, including fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches. In severe cases, bird flu can cause respiratory issues and pneumonia, which may be life-threatening. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing the virus.

While cases in humans are rare, scientists are closely monitoring the situation, fearing that widespread transmission in mammals could lead to mutations, potentially increasing the virus's ability to spread among humans.