The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health recently confirmed a human case of H5 bird flu in an adult. The person involved was exposed to livestock infected with H5 Bird flu at a worksite. Officials say the victim experienced mild symptoms and has been treated with antiviral medications. This is the first human case of H5 bird flu detected in the county. According to health experts, the overall risk of H5 bird flu to the public remains low.
Currently, there is no evidence of the spread of this virus from person to person. Other workers, who had contact with the infected person at the worksite reportedly are being monitored for symptoms. Also, these workers have been offered personal protective equipment, testing, and antiviral prophylaxis.
“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,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer, in a news release. “People should avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead animals, including cows, poultry, and wild birds; avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products, such as raw milk; and protect pets and backyard poultry from exposure to wild animals. It is also important for everyone to get the seasonal flu vaccine, which can help prevent severe seasonal flu illness and lower the risk of getting both seasonal and bird flu infections at the same time if exposed.”
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