Los Angeles County Reports First Human H5 Bird Flu Case from Livestock Exposure, Patient Recovering at Home

Dec 24, 2024, 12:04 AM

Los Angeles County has confirmed its first human case of H5 bird flu, marking a notable development in the ongoing avian influenza outbreak. The infected individual, an adult, was exposed to livestock infected with the virus at a worksite and is currently recovering at home after receiving antiviral treatment. The patient experienced mild symptoms. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has stated that the overall risk to the public remains low, with no evidence of person-to-person transmission and no additional cases identified at this time. Close contacts of the patient and other workers at the site are being monitored and offered protective measures. This case follows California's declaration of a state of emergency due to the spread of H5N1, which has also affected poultry and dairy cattle across the state. Additionally, a severe case of H5N1 was reported in Louisiana, highlighting the broader impact of the virus across the U.S. Public health officials are encouraging the public to get the seasonal flu vaccine to help prevent severe seasonal flu illness and lower the risk of getting both seasonal and bird flu infections if exposed.