Oregon Reports First Human Case of Bird Flu, CDC Confirms
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed Oregon’s first human case of highly pathogenic bird flu. The individual, a farm worker, was exposed during an outbreak at a commercial poultry farm in the state.
Outbreak in Poultry Operations
The affected poultry farm in Oregon had already reported the virus in 150,000 birds. The CDC’s data shows that bird flu outbreaks have significantly impacted poultry farms nationwide, with over 100 million birds lost since 2022 due to the ongoing epidemic.
Human Infections Limited to Farm Workers
So far this year, 52 people across seven states have tested positive for bird flu in the U.S. Most of the cases involve farm workers who had direct contact with infected animals. One exception was reported in Missouri, though details remain limited.
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Despite these infections, health officials stress there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission, and the overall risk to the public remains low.
Testing Protocols for Farm Workers
The CDC advises farm workers exposed to infected animals to undergo testing, even if they show no symptoms, as part of its proactive monitoring efforts.
First Detection of Bird Flu in Swine
In a related development last month, the H5N1 bird flu virus was detected in a pig on a backyard farm in Oregon. This marks the first time the virus has been confirmed in swine in the United States.
Impact on Dairy Herds and Public Health Guidance
In addition to poultry farms, the virus has reportedly affected more than 500 dairy herds. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and urge preventive measures to contain its spread among animals.
Keeping the Public Informed
While the outbreak has caused significant losses in poultry and other livestock industries, experts assure that the risk to the general public is minimal. Vigilant testing and biosecurity measures remain the focus in curbing the virus’s spread.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
Priya Bairagi
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
