The initial instance of avian influenza affecting humans in the U.S. has been identified in Missouri and is not connected to any animal sources.
"In 2024, the 14th instance of H5 was detected in humans within the United States, marking the first occurrence without any known occupation-related interaction with ailing or infected creatures, as reported by the CDC in a statement. This also represents the first instance detected through the country's national flu monitoring system, rather than being identified through targeted surveillance of the ongoing bird flu epidemic in animals.
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The instance is currently under investigation by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The individual had pre-existing health issues and was admitted to the hospital on August 22. Tests confirmed influenza A, followed by treatment with influenza antiviral medications. Currently, the individual has recuperated and is residing at home, as per the MDHSS.
A specimen from the patient was forwarded to the CDC, which confirmed the flu strain to be of bird origin. Influenza viruses are categorized considering two surface proteins: an H, or hemagglutinin, protein, and an N, or neuraminidase, protein. The CDC has verified the strain as H5, though they have yet to determine the N type. They're focusing on isolating the virus and deciphering its genetic sequence. Researchers at the CDC anticipate unveiling more details on the virus's genetics in the near future, according to the CDC spokesperson.
Deciphering the genetic sequence will shed light on the potential relation between the virus that infected this patient and the viruses responsible for ongoing outbreaks in poultry and other animals in the US.
As of now, no bird flu cases have been reported among cattle in Missouri. However, bird flu outbreaks have occurred among poultry in the state.
The CDC maintains a low risk assessment for H5N1 in the general public."
CNN’s Brenda Goodman contributed to this report.
The individual's pre-existing health issues likely affected their response to the H5 virus, requiring hospitalization and influenza antiviral medications. The CDC's investigation aims to decipher the virus's genetic sequence, which could reveal its relation to ongoing outbreaks in animals, potentially impacting public health.
