#18,492
A week ago, in Louisiana & Missouri Report Waterfowl Die Offs As H5N1 Moves East, we noted the rapid spread of HPAI via migratory birds from the Western states - shifting both south and east - and the increasing risk of human (and pet) exposure to the virus.
Although multiple genotypes may be involved, much of this fall's activity appears to be driven by a new D1.x genotype, which has proved particularly aggressive both in wild birds and poultry, and has spilled over into more than a dozen humans.
Since that report we've seen a (now confirmed) human infection in Louisiana and a suspected (but not CDC confirmed) infection in Delaware (see CDC chart below). In addition to the 61 cases confirmed this year by the CDC, 7 additional cases tested positive at the local level.
Note: The CDC is not counting serologically identified cases, and based on anecdotal reports, there are likely scores of others. Most report an occupational exposure (farm animals), but in several cases the exposures remain unknown.
While the official mantra remains that avian flu is a low risk to the general public, that risk has increased measurably over the past 8 months, and the CDC has issued fairly stringent advice to the general public (and to pet owners) on avoiding unnecessary exposure.
Yesterday the County of Galveston announced the detection - and exposure of several individuals - to a sick bird, which died shortly after being transported to a local animal resource center. The bird subsequently tested positive for HPAI H5N1.
Two animal control officers exhibited flu-like symptoms, but tested negative for the virus. Two others at the animal resource center had potential exposure, and are still being monitored.
First the statement from Galveston County, after which I'll have a bit more.
Galveston County Health District Confirms First Positive Case of Avian Influenza in Texas City
Post Date:12/17/2024 8:00 AM
GALVESTON COUNTY, Texas— The Galveston County Health District (GCHD) has confirmed the first positive case of Avian Influenza (H5N1) in Galveston County. The case was identified in a bird found in Texas City on 12/5. The bird, reported to Texas City Animal Control by a resident who observed erratic behavior, was collected by Animal Control Officers and transported to the Animal Resource Center. The bird died shortly after arrival and was sent to the Department of State Health Services in Austin, where testing confirmed the presence of Avian Influenza (H5N1).
Avian Influenza, commonly referred to as “bird flu,” is a viral infection that primarily spreads among birds but can occasionally infect humans and other animals. Influenza A (H5N1), the most common strain affecting humans, can cause severe respiratory symptoms. While the virus is widespread among wild birds globally, it has also caused outbreaks in poultry and, more recently, cases in U.S. dairy workers.
The virus can be transmitted to humans in two primary ways:Signs and symptoms of Avian Influenza in humans may include:
- Direct exposure to infected birds or environments contaminated by Avian Influenza A viruses.
- Via an intermediate host, such as another animal species.
Note: Fever may not always be present
- Fever (100°F or higher) or chills
- Cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing
- Eye irritation or conjunctivitis
- Muscle aches, headaches, runny nose, or diarrhea
Following the confirmed case in the bird, two Texas City Animal Control Officers who responded to the incident started experiencing symptoms. Initial rapid tests conducted by GCHD returned negative results for H5N1, with confirmatory testing by the Houston Laboratory Regional Network also confirming negative results.
Two additional staff members from the Galveston County Animal Resource Center, who were potentially exposed, are currently being monitored for symptoms. At this time, no symptoms have been reported.
The Galveston County Health District reminds residents to exercise caution when handling sick or dead birds. If you encounter a sick or dead bird, contact your local health department or wildlife agency for guidance on collection and testing. Individuals who experience any symptoms within 10 days of exposure to an infected animal should immediately contact their healthcare provider or local health department. Testing and isolation may be recommended based on the level of exposure.
Although the risk of HPAI transmission from a single bird to a human is likely low, it is not zero, hence the advice to avoid handling sick or dead birds.
Sick birds, however, make easy prey for other animals, raising the risks of transmission to pets (cats & dogs) which could potentially pass on the virus.
While the pandemic potential for HPAI H5 remains unproven, its prevalence in the environment (wild birds, soil & water, other mammals) continues to rise, and it now appears to be at or near record levels in North America.
Meaning that anyone who has pets that are allowed outside, raises backyard birds, hunts, or does wildlife/animal rescue needs to be aware that the risks of HPAI exposure are increasing, and act accordingly.
For everyone else, a modicum of Personal Pre-Pandemic Planning would seem prudent, even if the risks today are considered `low'.