A serious case of avian influenza A(H5N1), also called “H5N1 bird flu,” has been found in a group of chickens in Louisiana. This is the first time in the United States that the virus has been linked to backyard chickens. The situation has become more concerning to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and urgent steps have been taken to stop the virus from spreading further.
The patient got the virus from sick birds that they came into close contact with. The virus is of the D1.1 genotype. This gene has also been found in people in Canada and Washington, as well as in chickens and wild birds in the US. The CDC is still sequencing more samples, but they want to make it clear that there is no proof of spread from person to person and that the public’s health is still not at great risk.
To keep track of the spread, the state has also set up complex tests and tracking methods.
People should stay away from sick or dead animals, including wild birds and chickens, so they don’t get sick. People who can’t avoid being exposed should wear personal protection equipment (PPE) like safety glasses, gloves, and N95 respirators.
People are also told to cook meat, fowl, and eggs to safe temperatures inside and only eat dairy goods that have been processed. People who have been around sick animals should keep an eye out for signs like red eyes or breathing problems and get medical help right away if they happen.
To reduce the risk of H5N1 infection, employers whose workers handle birds and animals are being asked to update their safety standards. Personal safety equipment (PPE), containment measures, and risk estimates are all important parts of lowering the risk of spread.
