1st Bird Flu case with no known animal exposure: the chances of human infection is still low

The United States has verified a case of bird flu in Missouri, which involves a person who has not had any contact with infected animals. According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the individual with preexisting health conditions was admitted to the hospital and has now made a full recovery.

This is the 14th case of bird flu in the US this year, but it stands out as the first one without direct contact with infected animals in the workplace, as emphasized by the CDC. Past instances in the US were associated with interactions with birds or livestock.

Health authorities discovered this instance during regular monitoring of the flu season. According to reports from the media, the individual was given antiviral therapy for the influenza virus.

However, the CDC affirms that the general risk to the public continues to be low. Bird flu is uncommon in humans, mainly impacting birds and a few other animals. The virus first appeared in China in the 1990s and has since spread worldwide, affecting not only birds but also sea lions, seals, and bears.

This year, there has been a rise in bird flu cases, especially in cattle across 14 states as of early September, with no cases reported in Missouri. Nevertheless, there have been reported cases among poultry and wild bird populations in Missouri this year.

Health professionals are keeping a close watch on the disease, even though the risk to humans is low, because of its major effects on wildlife in different continents, including Antarctica.

Symptoms of bird flu

Symptoms of bird flu can range from mild to severe in an individual. Symptoms usually appear within a week after being exposed to the virus but may also manifest up to two weeks later. Direct contact with an infected animal, or with the bedding or stool of the animal, can lead to infection in a person.

Bird flu viruses display identical symptoms. So, you require testing to determine if you are infected with avian influenza.

Typical signs of bird flu are:

• Elevated body temperature
• Difficulty breathing.
• Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye.
• Stomach discomfort.
• Diarrhoea