A man has passed away after contracting a previously animal-exclusive virus, raising concerns of a potential new disease outbreak. Rushed to the hospital earlier this month with a high fever, the man displayed confusion and breathing difficulties.
Health officials were taken aback when the patient was diagnosed with H5N5, a subtype of bird flu typically carried by ducks, geese, and other wild birds. The Washington State Department of Health identified the patient as “older” with underlying health issues.
It was disclosed that the man maintained a mixed backyard flock of domestic poultry at his residence in Grays Harbour County, located in the southwest region of the U.S. After testing the birds, authorities discovered traces of avian influenza, indicating that the patient likely contracted the virus from his own flock.
In contrast to the more common H5N1 strain of bird flu in the U.S., H5N5 differs due to a distinct protein on the virus’ surface. H5N1 has affected wild birds and domestic poultry since 2022, with 71 human cases of H5 bird flu reported in the U.S. since last year.
While most cases presented mild symptoms, a tragic incident in Louisiana led to a fatality in January. Conversely, the UK documented 81 cases of bird flu. Confirmed cases have been reported in Cumbria, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Scotland, and Wales.
Although regular flu and bird flu are distinct viruses, their symptoms can overlap, including headache, sore muscles, cough, and high temperature. Severe cases may develop pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome.
The UK Government noted common symptoms among infected individuals, such as red, sore, and discharging eyes. In the UK, seven confirmed infections have occurred since 2021, all linked to prolonged contact with numerous infected birds.
Dr. Robert Murphy, a professor specializing in infectious diseases, expressed concerns about the potential for another pandemic, emphasizing the virus’ mutability. Despite its name suggesting otherwise, bird flu can infect humans and other animals, requiring isolation and treatment with antiviral medications like Tamiflu and Relenza if contracted.
Avian symptoms include a swollen head, blue discoloration around the neck and throat, and breathing issues. Individuals are advised against handling sick or deceased birds. While cases in the UK have been asymptomatic or mild, testing is necessary to differentiate between regular flu and bird flu. Dr. Murphy warned about the virus’s high mutation rate.