B.C. Teen in Critical Condition with H5N1 Avian Flu, No Known Bird Contact

Nov 13, 2024, 05:40 AM

A teenager in British Columbia, Canada, has been hospitalized in critical condition with the country's first presumptive human case of avian influenza, specifically the H5N1 strain. The teen, who had no underlying health conditions, initially presented with symptoms of conjunctivitis, fever, and cough before being admitted to B.C. Children's Hospital with acute respiratory distress. The source of the infection remains unknown, with no known contact with birds or farm animals, though the teen had interacted with various pets including dogs, cats, and reptiles. The virus detected in the teen is different from the strain circulating in U.S. dairy cattle, belonging to the 2.3.4.4b clade, genotype D.1.1, which has been found in poultry in British Columbia and Washington state. Health officials are investigating the case, having tested 36 contacts and given antiviral medication, with no other cases identified so far. All tests on contacts and animals associated with the teen have returned negative for the virus. The case has raised concerns about the potential for undetected spread of avian flu in humans, prompting calls for increased vigilance and preparedness measures.