Human Case of Bird Flu Confirmed in Texas
Health officials in Texas have reported the first case of bird flu in a human, raising concerns among the American population. The infected individual contracted the avian influenza A(H5N1) virus after close contact with infected cows. The virus was first detected in sick dairy cattle in Texas and Kansas, and has since spread to other dairy herds across the country, including Michigan, New Mexico, and Idaho.
Low Risk to Public Health, but Vigilance Needed
The diagnosed patient in Texas has only shown symptoms of conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has assured that the risk to public health remains low. However, precautions must be taken to prevent further spread of the virus. The relevant health authorities are actively working to curb the outbreak.
How Does Bird Flu Spread?
Bird flu primarily spreads through close contact with infected birds. Most cases in humans have occurred after contact with sick or dead infected animals. Birds infected with avian flu shed the virus through their saliva, mucous, and feces, making transmission possible through contact with infected biological fluids. The virus can then enter the human body through the eyes, nose, mouth, or respiratory system.
Preventing the Spread of Bird Flu
To reduce the risk of bird flu transmission, individuals should avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead animals, including wild birds, poultry, or domesticated birds. This also applies to contact with animal waste or materials contaminated by animals suspected or confirmed to have bird flu. Furthermore, the consumption of uncooked or undercooked food, such as raw milk or cheeses, from infected animals should be avoided.
Those directly working with animals susceptible to infection should take preventive measures such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), including approved particulate respirators like N95 masks, goggles, gloves, boots, boot covers, fluid-resistant coveralls, and disposable head or hair covers.
Persons who have been in close proximity to animals with suspected or confirmed bird flu should be monitored for signs and symptoms for 10 days after exposure. This precaution extends to individuals who were employing personal protective equipment during the contact.
