Bird Flu Virus Detected in US for First Time in 2 Years – Drug Topics

The HPAI A(H5N1) virus, otherwise known as avian influenza or the bird flu, was recently detected in a dairy farmer in Texas. Its the first report of bird flu in the US since April 2022. The CDC released a statement on the status of the virus in the country and issued recommendations on how to avoid it.

The CDC issued a statement discussing avian influenza and is currently working with the USDA, FDA, and state departments to monitor the virus within the US. The overall risks of the virus growing into a larger public health issue, however, remains low, according to the CDC.1

Avian influenza is often detected in wild birds and poultry farms across the US | image credit: Dewald / stock.adobe.com

READ MORE: Are We Close to a Universal Flu Vaccine?

For just the second time, someone in the US has contracted avian influenza. It is highly pathogenic, yet no severe illness or death has occurred in the US due to the virus, with only 900 cases detected worldwide.1

The CDC has informed the public on where bird flu originates, the symptoms to look out for, and recommendations on how to treat and, most importantly, avoid the avian bird flu.

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Bird Flu Virus Detected in US for First Time in 2 Years - Drug Topics