First case of bird flu transmitted to humans from a cow confirmed in Texas
According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both nationally and statewide, the virus was identified in the patient after he came into contact with milk from infected cows.
This is the first case of bird flu linked to dairy cows - Photo Reproduction/Wilson Dias/Agência Brasil
Health authorities confirmed the first case of bird flu linked to dairy cows and second case of transmission to a human, in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at the national and state level, a person was diagnosed with bird flu in the state of Texas after coming into contact with milk from cows infected with the H5N1 influenza virus. The patient is currently under treatment and the only symptom observed so far has been inflammation in the eyes, as stated by the CDC.
According to the Washington Post newspaper, the patient was tested last week and the results confirmed the infection last weekend. This is the second case of H5N1 bird flu infection in humans reported in the United States in recent weeks. This occurs after State and national health officials identify cows infected with the virus on dairy farms in five states: Texas, Kansas, Idaho, Michigan and New Mexico. The Texas CDC specified that the patient who tested positive for bird flu had direct contact with an infected cow.
The CDC emphasized that this case does not change the assessment of the public health risk of H5N1 avian influenza in the United States, which is considered low. However, the health agency highlighted that people exposed to infected birds or animals, as well as environments contaminated by them, are at greater risk of infection.
Case Details
The US department is working with local, state and federal health partners to investigate and closely monitor the case and any additional records of bird flu, in addition to implementing measures to contain the possible spread of the virus. This includes identifying and quarantining individuals who have had close contact with the infected patient, as well as intensifying surveillance in susceptible bird populations.
According to the statement issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services, the case in question does not increase the risk to the general public, which continues to be considered low. The CDC also confirmed that the risk remains low. This assessment is attributed to the changing nature of the influenza virus and the continued importance of surveillance and preparedness. The CDC said it is paying attention and will take action as necessary if the public health risk assessment changes. In the note, the agency also states that this is an evolving situation and that the CDC will provide additional updates as additional relevant information becomes available.
Threat to Public Health
Avian influenza, caused by different subtypes of the type A influenza virus originating in birds, poses a significant threat to public health due to its ability to mutate and spread rapidly among humans. Although the cases of transmission from birds to humans are rare, the severity of the consequences can be devastating. Since 2022 it has been identified in several species in the USA, including gulls, owls and ducks. Recently, there has been an increase in cases among mammals, especially in the western and central-western regions of the country. Bears, foxes, possums and seals have also been affected by this outbreak.
These animals are believed to have contracted the virus through ingestion or contact with contaminated birds. Transmission occurs mainly through feces, saliva and contact with contaminated surfaces. Human-to-human transmission is considered very rare, according to the CDC. Bird flu symptoms can vary, from a mild illness similar to the common flu to more severe cases with symptoms such as pneumonia. Signs include fever, cough, sore throat and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing.
Containment and Prevention Measures
With the first human case of bird flu confirmed in Texas, health officials are taking a proactive approach to prevent the spread of the virus. That includes:
Vaccination: Authorities encourage seasonal flu vaccination, which can help reduce the burden on healthcare systems and limit the spread of respiratory illnesses, including bird flu.
Public Education: Awareness campaigns in addition to informing the public about the risks associated with bird flu, is also one of the preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection.
Bird Monitoring: Specialized teams around the world continue to intensify bird monitoring efforts in areas where the presence of the virus has been detected, in order to identify and control outbreaks in bird populations.
