Authorities list symptoms to watch for as the first human in the US dies from bird flu.

In the US, a man has become the first to die from bird flu, prompting authorities to issue warnings about the contagious nature of the infection. The public is advised to be vigilant for symptoms. The H5N1 strain, the current dominant form of bird flu, recorded its first human case in April of last year. Since then, over eight months, 66 individuals across 10 states, including Wisconsin, have been infected.

California Declares State of Emergency After Bird Flu Cases

In December, California declared a state of emergency following the identification of 34 bird flu cases. Although most sufferers experienced only mild symptoms, virus experts were unprepared for a fatal outcome.

First Fatal Bird Flu Case Confirmed in Louisiana

The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed that an unnamed man, aged over 65, succumbed to the virus after coming into contact with sick backyard poultry and wild birds. The patient developed severe respiratory complications, and genetic analysis revealed the virus had mutated within him. This mutation is believed to have caused the severe illness, leading to his death.

Public Health Officials Warn of Serious Bird Flu Threat

Public health officials are emphasizing the ongoing serious threat posed by bird flu. Jennifer Nuzzo, director of the Pandemic Center at the Brown University School of Public Health, commented, “[Bird flu] is a serious threat and has historically been deadly. This tragic event reminds us that mild cases do not guarantee future mildness,” as reported by The Mirror.

No Evidence of Human-to-Human Transmission

The Louisiana Department of Health issued a statement confirming that the man contracted H5N1 from a combination of non-commercial backyard poultry and wild birds. They reported no further H5N1 cases or evidence of human-to-human transmission. The department extended condolences to the family and noted this would be their final update due to confidentiality.

Bird Flu Spreads Among Animals and Humans

Though rare, bird flu can spread swiftly among birds, poultry, animals, and even humans. Public Health Madison & Dane County highlighted that those in direct or close contact with infected animals, contaminated surfaces, or raw milk are at risk.

Bird Flu Symptoms and Protective Measures

Symptoms of bird flu include eye redness or irritation, fever, cough, muscle aches, and severe respiratory issues such as pneumonia or organ failure. While no confirmed cases of person-to-person transmission have occurred in the US, authorities recommend protective measures.

Recommendations for Those at Risk

These include getting a seasonal flu shot, avoiding contact with wild birds or sick animals, and refraining from consuming raw milk or products. The Louisiana Department of Health advises anyone exposed to sick or dead animals to monitor for symptoms like respiratory issues or conjunctivitis. They should seek medical advice, inform healthcare providers about potential exposure, and stay isolated while symptomatic.

Amid a state of emergency declared in the USA, be aware of the 10 most frequently observed symptoms of bird flu.

After detecting 34 cases of bird flu, California has declared a state of emergency. Governor Gavin Newsom made the decision on Wednesday (December 18) as cases of the avian influenza A (H5N1) subtype increased rapidly.

Bird Flu Transmission Explained by Cleveland Clinic

Bird flu, as explained by the Cleveland Clinic, spreads to humans through the bodily fluids of infected animals. These fluids can include saliva, milk, feces, or even ‘respiratory droplets.’ The virus can be contracted by inhaling small dust particles from animal habitats or by touching bodily fluids and then transferring them to the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Bird Flu Detected in Hundreds of Dairy Cows in California

Since late August, bird flu has been detected in around 645 dairy cows in California, with half of these cases identified in the past month. Most of the 34 human cases are believed to be farmworkers who were in close contact with the infected cattle.

First Severe Bird Flu Case in the US Reported

The first severe bird flu case in the US has also been reported, involving a person over 65 with underlying health conditions. The individual was hospitalized in critical condition after likely coming into contact with an infected backyard flock.

CDC Investigation Into Louisiana Bird Flu Case

The CDC noted, “An investigation into the Louisiana case is ongoing, but it has been established that the patient was exposed to sick and dead birds in backyard flocks. This is the first H5N1 bird flu case in the US linked to backyard flock exposure.”

Nationwide Bird Flu Cases and Transmission Update

This year, there have been 61 bird flu cases across the country. However, the CDC confirmed that there has been no evidence of person-to-person transmission of the H5 bird flu.

What are the symptoms of bird flu?

There are 10 primary signs of bird flu to be aware of, though the Cleveland Clinic notes that recent cases in the US have resulted in pink eye and ‘mild respiratory symptoms.’

Key symptoms are:

• Conjunctivitis 
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Sore throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Shortness of breath

These symptoms can range from mild to severe. In certain instances, bird flu may lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, sepsis, brain inflammation, and respiratory failure.

Treatment of bird flu

If detected early enough, bird flu can be treated with antiviral medication. A sore throat, fever and muscle aches can be treated with over-the-counter medicine as usual. You should get plenty of rest and stay hydrated, too

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