![Third Human Case of Bird Flu Reported in the US: Michigan Dairy Farm Worker Contracts Virus, Shows Respiratory Symptoms](https://www.sciencealert.com/images/2024/05/SEMofOrangeBirdFluVirusParticlesInGreenKidneyCells.jpg)
Bird Flu Outbreak in the US: Third Human Case Reported
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a third human case of bird flu in the United States on May 31, 2024. The latest patient is a dairy farm worker from Michigan who was not wearing personal protective equipment despite health authorities' recommendations.
The first two cases were reported in Texas and Michigan earlier this year, with both patients experiencing eye symptoms such as conjunctivitis. However, the third case marks a shift as the patient also showed respiratory symptoms including cough, congestion, and sore throat.
According to the CDC, all three cases are linked to contact with infected dairy cattle. The H5N1 virus is highly pathogenic and can spread from birds to humans through direct contact with contaminated environments or infected animals.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) stated that the latest patient's symptoms resolved after being treated with antiviral medication oseltamivir. The CDC added that there is a low risk for the general public to contract bird flu as long as they do not have direct contact with infected animals or their environments.
The USDA has announced an ambitious $800 million program to support testing, surveillance, and the development of livestock vaccines. Health officials are urging frontline dairy workers to wear personal protective equipment and get the regular flu shot to prevent contracting two illnesses at once.
Bird flu was first detected in wild birds across all 50 states in March 2024, and it has since spread to dairy cattle. The commercial milk supply remains safe, but health officials recommend avoiding raw milk until further notice.
The CDC is adding about 5 million doses of bird flu vaccine to the national stockpile in case it becomes necessary.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)