An adult in Los Angeles County has been confirmed as the area’s first human case of bird flu.
The individual has mild symptoms and is recovering.
“The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed a human case of H5 bird flu in an adult who was exposed to livestock infected with H5 Bird flu at a worksite,” the health department said in a statement. “This is the first human case of H5 bird flu detected in LA County. The person had mild symptoms, has been treated with antivirals, and is recovering at home. The overall risk of H5 bird flu to the public remains low.”
According to the health department, there is no evidence of person-to-person spread.
“Close contacts of the infected person and other workers exposed at the worksite are being monitored for symptoms and have been offered personal protective equipment, testing and antiviral prophylaxis,” the statement read. “No additional cases have been identified at this time.”
Los Angeles County Health Officer Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, said, “People rarely get bird flu, but those who interact with infected livestock or wildlife have a greater risk of infection. This case reminds us to take basic precautions to prevent being exposed.”
Davis noted that people should “avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead animals” and avoid raw or undercooked animal products. Davis further encouraged residents to get the flu vaccine.
Last week, California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) proclaimed a state of emergency to “streamline and expedite” the state’s response to bird flu.
“This proclamation is a targeted action to ensure government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need to respond quickly to this outbreak,” Newsom said. “Building on California’s testing and monitoring system — the largest in the nation — we are committed to further protecting public health, supporting our agriculture industry, and ensuring that Californians have access to accurate, up-to-date information. While the risk to the public remains low, we will continue to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this virus.”
