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Soaring Concerns: Latest Outbreaks and Human Impacts of Avian Influenza Across the U.S.
# Bird Flu Update
Bird flu continues to spread across the United States, with new outbreaks emerging in multiple states and concerns growing among public health officials.
According to the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, new avian flu outbreaks have been reported in five states as of December 11th. In Indiana, the situation has escalated significantly, with outbreaks at commercial duck meat facilities affecting more than 15,000 birds.
The human impact remains limited but serious. Washington Department of Health confirmed the first known human case of H5N5 avian influenza in November of this year. The patient was hospitalized with severe disease and unfortunately died, marking a significant development in the outbreak. Symptoms of avian influenza in humans can range from mild to severe and mirror those of seasonal influenza.
Meanwhile, wildlife authorities are investigating suspected bird flu deaths in Florida. Officials suspect bird flu after 12 swans died recently at Lake Eolas Park in downtown Orlando. About five dozen swans lived at the park before these recent deaths. The last bird flu outbreak at the park occurred in February 2024. Because the deaths occurred during the holiday season, the citys specialized veterinarians were unable to perform immediate evaluations. Dead swans have been stored securely for necropsies to determine the cause of death.
According to the CDC and Washington Department of Health, the risk of avian influenza to the general public remains low, though officials are closely monitoring the situation. Transmission between humans is extremely rare and has not been documented in the United States. The greatest risk to the general public continues to be seasonal influenza.
Health officials recommend that people avoid handling sick or dead birds or wildlife. Healthcare workers are advised to treat suspected avian influenza patients immediately with antiviral medications and to use strict isolation and personal protective equipment protocols.
The seasonal influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older. While the seasonal vaccine does not protect against avian influenza, it reduces the risk of co-infections, which public health officials consider an important concern.
Thanks for tuning in to this bird flu update. Be sure to check back next week for more health and science news. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more information, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.
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Published on 5 hours ago