The US has recorded a &ldquo;severe&rdquo;&nbsp;case of H5N1 bird flu in Louisiana, prompting increased attention to the ongoing spread of the virus. In response, Gavin Newsom, the governor of California--which has been at the epicentre of the outbreak among cattle--has declared a state of emergency.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Louisianna patient was exposed to sick and dead birds in a backyard flock,&nbsp;and hospitalized with a severe infection.
Governor Newsom&rsquo;s declaration is part of a broader effort to coordinate monitoring and provide resources to contain the virus and prevent further spread.&nbsp;
California currently accounts for about half of all known human infections in the US Since April 2024, there have been 61 reported human cases of H5N1 avian influenza nationwide. Over 300 dairy herds in California have tested positive for avian influenza in the last 30 days, particularly in Southern California.
However, the CDC&rsquo;s overall assessment of the risk to public health remains low.
&ldquo;Avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection has previously been associated with severe human illness in other countries, but no person-to-person spread of the virus has been detected,&rdquo;a CDC official said.
While the risk to public health remains low, this case underscores the potential danger of avian influenza and highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing its spread.
The bird flu outbreak is also impacting commercial poultry and dairy operations, with wild birds and backyard flocks emerging as a significant source of transmission.
Health experts continue to stress that individuals with direct exposure to infected animals, particularly those working with poultry or wild birds, should wear protective equipment and avoid contact with sick or dead animals.
As the situation evolves, California and other affected states continue to monitor the spread of the virus and implement necessary precautions to protect both animal and public health.

Colourized electron microscope image showing avian influenza A H5N1 virus particles in yellow

Severe human case in Louisiana sparks statewide action as bird flu spreads in dairy cattle

California Declares Emergency Over Bird Flu

Severe human case in Louisiana sparks statewide action as bird flu spreads in dairy cattle

December 19, 2024 | 11:31 IST