Bird Flu Missouri 2024: What You Need to Know

Bird Flu Missouri 2024: On August 22, 2024, an adult in Missouri was hospitalized with flu-like symptoms, and testing later confirmed avian influenza A (H5), commonly known as bird flu.

This case is significant because it’s the first instance in the U.S. this year where the patient did not have any known direct contact with poultry or dairy cows, which are typical sources of the virus.

Bird Flu Missouri 2024: What You Need to Know

Bird flu, or avian influenza, mainly affects birds but can sometimes spread to humans. The most common strain affecting people is H5N1.

Symptoms in humans can vary from mild respiratory issues, like a cough or sore throat, to severe pneumonia and, in extreme cases, death.

H5N1 is particularly concerning because it has a high mortality rate in birds and can lead to serious illness in humans, though such cases are quite rare.

Identification: This case was detected through Missouri’s seasonal flu surveillance system.

Patient Condition: The patient, who had pre-existing health conditions, was hospitalized, treated with antiviral medications, and has since recovered.

No Known Animal Exposure: The patient did not have any documented contact with sick animals, which is unusual for bird flu cases, typically linked to direct contact with infected birds or animals.

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Investigation and Findings

Health officials are trying to determine how the patient contracted the virus without any known animal exposure.

The CDC is conducting further tests and analyzing the virus’s genome to check for any new mutations that might affect how it spreads among humans.

Dr. William Schaffner, an expert in infectious diseases, points out the importance of this investigation to see if this case reveals a new way the virus could be transmitted or if it’s an isolated incident.

Public Health Implications

Current Risk: The CDC has stated that the risk to the general public remains low, with no evidence suggesting that H5N1 is spreading from person to person.

Precautions: Officials recommend avoiding contact with sick or dead animals and practicing good food safety, like consuming only pasteurized milk. Continued surveillance and research are crucial.

Regional Data: In Missouri, there have been no reported H5 infections in dairy cattle. However, cases have been found in commercial poultry, backyard flocks, and wild birds.

Are there any other Recent Bird Flu Outbreaks?

A (H1N1) Variant in Vietnam: On September 4, 2024, the WHO reported a new variant of Influenza A (H1N1) in Vietnam.

Avian Influenza A (H5N1) in Cambodia: On September 2, 2024, Cambodia reported a case of H5N1 bird flu.

Mpox in Sweden: Sweden reported Mpox cases on August 30, 2024. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, causes flu-like symptoms and rashes.

Oropouche Virus Disease in the Americas: As of August 23, 2024, the Americas have reported cases of Oropouche virus disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes and causes fever, rash, and joint pain.

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome from Chandipura Virus in India: On August 23, 2024, India reported acute encephalitis syndrome caused by the Chandipura virus, which can severely affect the brain.

Final Thought

This case in Missouri is noteworthy because of the unusual lack of direct animal contact. The ongoing investigation will be key to understanding how the virus was contracted and ensuring public health safety.

While the immediate risk remains low, this case underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and research into avian influenza.