The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported that a human case of H5N1, commonly referred to as bird flu, has been found in Texas. The public’s risk is still minimal, according to the government agency.
While H5N1 virus infections in humans are uncommon, the CDC notes that there is a chance of infection if you come into contact with infected animals. It has not been discovered that the virus spreads between people.
Understanding H5N1 Virus Transmission
“The risk to individuals not working in farming or with close animal contact remains exceedingly low, given that the H5N1 bird flu case in Texas resulted from direct animal contact and there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission,” stated Dr. John Brownstein, chief innovation officer at Boston Children’s Hospital and a medical contributor for ABC News.
This is the second H5N1 incidence involving humans to be documented in the United States; the first was connected to animals. Although H5N1 is usually found in birds, Texas authorities discovered the virus in cattle in March.
According to the CDC, the afflicted person from Texas who worked closely with sick livestock stated that eye redness was their only symptom.
After severing their contact with others and receiving antiviral medication for the flu, they are currently recuperating.
“For the general public, this event serves as a reminder of the effectiveness of our disease surveillance systems and the ongoing need for vigilance,” Brownstein stated.
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CDC Guidance: Avoiding Sick Animal Products
The Food and Drug Administration and US authorities state that there are now no worries regarding the safety of the commercial milk supply.
According to the Agriculture Department, sick cow milk must be discarded by dairy farms, and pasteurization eliminates influenza viruses.
The CDC advises against consuming foods like raw cheeses or unpasteurized milk that comes from sick animals, as well as exposing people to sick or dead animals.
“It’s vital that the public stays informed, follows CDC guidelines, and takes standard precautions, particularly those working closely with animals,” Brownstein said.
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