A child from California has become the first case of H5N1 bird flu in the United States, raising concerns among health officials. The child, who is recovering at home, experienced mild symptoms after testing positive for the virus, according to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
Child’s Condition and Response from Health Authorities
The child, from Alameda County, was treated with flu antivirals and has shown improvement. A follow-up test indicated no active bird flu virus, although other respiratory viruses were detected.
To ensure safety, local health officials have reached out to families and caregivers at the child’s day-care centre, conducting checks and preventive treatments for those who were in close contact.
Updates on Bird Flu Cases in the US
- In total, 55 human cases of H5N1 have been reported in the US during the year 2024.
- Of these, 29 cases have occurred in California.
- Most cases are linked to individuals working closely with infected poultry or livestock.
Despite the recent case, health authorities emphasised that the risk to the general population remains low. The CDC reiterated that no human-to-human transmission of bird flu has occurred in over 15 years.
Monitoring and Precautions
California public health officials continue to monitor both human and animal infections closely. They recommend avoiding contact with sick or deceased wild birds to minimise the risk of infection.
As H5N1 can mutate and potentially spread among humans, health officials remain vigilant in their surveillance of the virus.