First US Child H5N1 Bird Flu Case Confirmed in Alameda County Amid California's Dairy Herd Outbreak

Nov 22, 2024, 08:19 PM

A new case of H5N1 bird flu has been confirmed in a child from Alameda County, California, marking the first reported avian influenza H5 virus infection in a minor in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the infection, stating that the child experienced mild symptoms and is recovering after receiving antiviral treatment. The source of the infection is unknown, and household members have tested negative for the virus. The CDC reported that there have been 55 human H5N1 cases in the United States in 2024, with 29 cases occurring in California. The outbreak has significantly impacted California's dairy industry since the first infections were reported on August 30. Reports indicate that over 402 dairy herds, representing approximately 36% of the state's herds, have been infected with H5N1. Nationwide, the total number of infected livestock herds has reached 619. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) noted that many herds remain under quarantine, including a commercial poultry farm with over 1 million birds affected in Kern and Marin counties. Health officials are monitoring the situation closely, and there is currently no evidence of person-to-person transmission. The CDC advises the public to avoid exposure to sick or dead animals, including wild birds, poultry, cows, and other livestock, to reduce the risk of infection.