US Records Second Human Bird Flu Death in 2025!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
A Washington State resident has died after contracting a rare strain of avian influenza, health officials confirmed, marking the second human death linked to the virus in the United States this year.
“This strain had previously been detected only in animals. We are working with federal partners to trace exposure sources and assess the public health risk,” said a Washington State Department of Health spokesperson.
Key Details:
- The patient reportedly had close contact with infected poultry before falling ill.
- Genetic sequencing confirmed the H5N1 strain — a highly pathogenic avian influenza variant.
- The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says human-to-human transmission remains unlikely at this stage.
Why It Matters:
- Bird flu cases in humans are rare but can raise global health concerns due to pandemic potential.
- The spread of H5N1 into human populations underscores the importance of zoonotic disease monitoring.
- It raises alarm in regions with high poultry density or limited veterinary surveillance.
What to Watch:
- Whether CDC updates guidance on poultry handling, testing, or vaccination protocols.
- Global health bodies’ response, including the World Health Organization’s risk assessment.
- Any mutation in the virus that could increase transmissibility between humans.
Sources:
- Washington State Department of Health
- CDC Official Statement
- Reuters Health Reports
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